In Loving Memory of Lindell Harrison-Steens

January 4, 1952 – September 20, 2026

With deep sorrow but grateful hearts, we celebrate the life and legacy of Lindell Harrison-Steens, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, educator, mentor, church servant, and friend. After a life richly lived in service to God, family, and community, she peacefully entered eternal rest on September 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Lindell was born on January 4, 1952, in Linden, Texas, to the late Novella Harrison and Ezell Harrison, Sr. Raised with strong values of faith, hard work, education, and compassion, she grew into a woman whose life would become a blessing to countless people. She attended schools in the Linden-Kildare community and graduated from Linden-Kildare High School in Linden, Texas. Determined to further her education, she enrolled at Texas Southern University, where she was a devout member of “The Ocean of Soul” Marching Band, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1974. She was a lifetime member of the Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority as well as the Fairview Reunion Corporation.

Following graduation, Lindell began a distinguished career in education that spanned more than three decades. She faithfully served the students, families, and staff of Houston Independent School District for over 30 years. Her dedication to helping others did not end with retirement. After relocating back to East Texas in 2008, she continued her life's work with Liberty-Eylau Independent School District, where she remained a valued educator and mentor until her second retirement in the spring of 2026.

Throughout her career, Lindell was known for her professionalism, wisdom, and willingness to go beyond her assigned duties to ensure that others succeeded. She believed education was a pathway to opportunity and worked tirelessly to encourage young people to achieve their fullest potential. To many students and colleagues, she was more than an educator; she was a source of encouragement, guidance, and unconditional support.

Of all the roles she held throughout her life, none brought her greater joy than being a mother. Her daughter, Danielle Hurt-Ward, was the pride of her life and the recipient of her endless love, wisdom, and devotion. Lindell was a constant source of strength, guidance, and encouragement, celebrating every accomplishment and offering comfort through every challenge. The bond they shared was built on faith, sacrifice, trust, and unwavering love.

Though Danielle was her only daughter, Lindell's nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family. She became a mother figure, mentor, and confidante to many, throughout her community. Countless children, young adults, church members, students, family members, and friends were blessed by her loving influence. Whether through a word of encouragement, a heartfelt prayer, practical advice, a helping hand, or simply a listening ear, Lindell made people feel seen, valued, and loved. Many affectionately considered her a second mother because of the genuine care and guidance she freely gave.

Lindell had a remarkable gift for connecting with people. She welcomed others into her life with warmth and sincerity and was always willing to share her wisdom and support. Her home and heart remained open to those in need, and she never hesitated to invest her time and energy in helping others grow and succeed. Her legacy can be seen in the lives of those she mentored, encouraged, uplifted, and loved throughout the years.

A woman of unwavering faith, Lindell was an active member of Mt. Horeb Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Samuel H. Smith, Sr. from 1974 until her return to East Texas in 2008. During her years there, she faithfully served in the choir, mission ministry, and as Youth Matron, helping to guide and nurture generations of young people in their spiritual walk.

After returning home to East Texas, she united with St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor T.J. Roberson. As she had done throughout her life, Lindell immediately found ways to serve. She became active in the choir, Sunday School, Mission I, and the annual Back-to-School Supply Drive. She faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, Mission I teacher, and Co-Chair of the Supply Drive, combining her passion for education with her commitment to ministry and community service.

Lindell's life was a beautiful reflection of Christ's love. Through her service, kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith, she demonstrated what it meant to live a life devoted to God and others. Her presence brought comfort, her wisdom provided direction, and her love left a lasting impact on all who were blessed to know her.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory, her loving daughter, Danielle Hurt-Ward; granddaughters, Whitney Ward (Michael), Mikhaila Woods (Xavier Woods II), and Jianna Henley; great-grandchildren, Matthew Smither, Xavier Woods III, and the Baby Woods twins.

She is also survived by her sisters, Mamie Sneed Lockett and Linda Watkins; her brothers, Ezell Harrison and Larry Harrison (Linda); her special "Nephew-Son," Tyron C. Sneed; and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, church family members, former students, colleagues, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her presence.

Although her earthly journey has ended, the love she shared, the faith she embodied, and the countless lives she touched ensure that her legacy will live on for generations to come. She will be remembered as a devoted servant of God, a dedicated educator, a loving mother, a proud grandmother and great-grandmother, and a compassionate woman whose life was a blessing to so many.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23

Lovingly Submitted by the Family.