Michael Steve Channell

Michael Steve Channell, 72, of Buhl, Alabama - a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend - passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. The family will be having private services. Magnolia Chapel North is assisting the family with his final care.

Steve was born and raised in Buhl and graduated from Tuscaloosa County High School. Though he always cherished his small-town roots, his curiosity, humor, and adventurous spirit carried him across the country. A talented and creative chef, he spent many years in the restaurant industry, working in restaurants throughout South Florida and New England before eventually returning home to Alabama. Back in Tuscaloosa, Steve became part of several of the area's most beloved restaurants, where his skill, kindness, and quick wit made him a favorite among coworkers and customers alike.

Steve's compassion extended to every living thing. He had a tender heart for animals-especially the strays who always seemed to find their way to his door. Visitors to his home were often greeted by a dog, cat, chicken, or duck that he had rescued and loved as family.

A proud and lifelong Alabama Crimson Tide fan, Steve celebrated (and sometimes suffered) every game with unwavering passion. He was also an avid reader who devoured many versions of the Bible, newspapers, and magazines, eager to discuss the latest story or headline with anyone willing to listen.

To know Steve was to know laughter. His sharp wit, dry sense of humor, and generous spirit could light up any room. He never met a stranger, and his greatest joy came from making others smile-even when it meant being the punchline himself. Loyal, kind, and endlessly good-natured Steve's presence was a gift to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Floyd Channell; grandparents, Aurther and Bessie Channell, and Harvey and Nanny Jacobs; and brothers-in-law, Ray Burroughs and Sonny Coker.

Steve is survived by his mother, Mary Lee Channell of Buhl; sisters, Brenda Coker, and Cheryl Burroughs; his uncle, Richard Jacobs; several nieces and nephews, and special niece, Amy Clemmons. (Steve always said that he and Amy were the outcasts of the family.)

The family would also like to recognize and thank Steve's dear friends Dr. Gene Alldredge, Dr. Gavin Wilks, Jean Harless, Elvis Pate, Wanda Kelly, Ed Virden, Linda and Mike Pongerator, Greg and Jenny Strickland, Brad Channell, Dave and Rita Connell, Patty Booth, Dale Deerman, and Ricky and Linda Jacobs for their love and friendship through the years.

Steve's family and friends will forever cherish his laughter, his stories, and the joy he brought into their lives. He was a devout Christian and loved the Lord with all his heart. He also loved his pastor, Rev. Brad Channell. The family appreciates the peace and comfort of knowing where he is. Rooted in faith, they take comfort in knowing he has found peace and look forward to the day they will see him again.