At a Feb. 19 regular meeting, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution dedicating a portion of Pilgrim Mill Road as the “SPC Zachary Evan Steele Memorial Road,” honoring the life and service of lifelong Forsyth County resident Spc. Zachary Steele who passed away on July 22, 2025, in a car accident while on active duty.

The designated roadway extends from the intersection of Bronze Oak Way and Aquatic Circle to Pilgrim Lake Drive.

Steele was a graduate of North Forsyth High School and served in the Georgia Army National Guard. During his military service, he earned numerous accolades, including the Army Achievement Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Overseas Service Medal and the Georgia National Guard Recruiting Ribbon.

Colleagues from the local armory attended the meeting in uniform to pay tribute. Steele’s parents, Jason and Mary Steele, along with other family members and supportive community members, were present as the Board recognized his legacy.

Reading from the resolution, District 1 Commissioner Kerry Hill stated, “It is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian and Forsyth County native be recognized appropriately by designating a road in his memory.”

In remarks to the Board, Steele’s family expressed gratitude for the community’s support.

“Nothing can change that day, nothing will ever make it make sense to a mother or to their family but tonight is not about tragedy; it’s about legacy,” Mary Steele said. “Dedicating a portion of Pilgrim Mill Road as ‘SPC Zachary Evan Steele Memorial Road’ ensures that Zach’s name will live on in the community he loved. Long after we’re gone, people will see the name and know he served – that he mattered.

“As a family, we’re incredibly proud of the young man Zach was and the soldier he became. To our community, thank you for standing with us and for remembering him. And to the Commissioners, thank you for ensuring Forsyth County does not forget one of its sons.”

The road dedication serves as a lasting tribute to Steele’s life, service and enduring impact on the Forsyth County community.

District 1 Commissioner Kerry Hill presenting roadway dedication plaque to Steele family.

Steele family and community supporters.