Philip D. Steiger

Philip D. Steiger (Phil), 75, of Dayton, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, surrounded by his family. A devoted husband, father, friend, and man of faith, Phil’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched—with wisdom, humor, kindness, and love.

Born on April 12, 1950, he was the son of Robert and Thelma Steiger (Blankenship). A 1968 graduate of Belmont High School, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Finance from the University of Cincinnati, where he was a proud member of the fraternity Phi Gamma Delta. He later advanced his education through the Executive Development Program at the University of Georgia.

Phil began his career in commercial lending with State Fidelity and Homestead Federal Savings and Loan. He later served with the Department of Defense at the Defense Electronics Supply Center (DESC) before transitioning to a role supporting small business as SBA Loan Officer through the Greene County Development Corporation and Vice President/SBA Specialist at KeyBank. Apart from his career, he was a voracious reader – especially history and suspense novels, which reflected both his curiosity about the world and a love for storytelling.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Velma Lynn Steiger (Gilbert); his son, Philip Matthew Steiger; daughter Brittany Steiger and son-in-law Mike Murphy; his sister, Barbara Smith (Ronnie) of Ashland City, TN; and his three nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Thelma Steiger.

Known for his outgoing personality and gregarious nature, Phil built lasting friendships and was a mentor to many. He enjoyed close relationships with extended family including uncles, aunts and cousins – connections he valued deeply throughout his life.

A devoted Christian and longtime member of Resurrection Lutheran Church in Washington Township, his faith shaped his life and relationships, and he cherished his church community.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 1315 E. Alex Bell Rd., with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m., funeral service and reception to follow.