11/04/2026
The Phoenix remembers Gina Mae Steele Hughes with deep respect and affection.
Gina was one of those people whose presence carried weight. She had history, strength, style, humor, and a way of supporting people that was both genuine and unmistakable. She supported The Phoenix, and she never hesitated to show love for the work being done.
Her journey through the Detroit Fire Department was historic, but what remains with us is the woman behind the accomplishments. Gina was resilient, accomplished, caring, and unapologetically herself.
We are grateful that she was part of our fire family and part of The Phoenix story.
Gina, you were one of a kind, and you are deeply missed. ❤️🔥
Today, we honour Gina Mae Steele Hughes, a trailblazer who broke barriers, challenged expectations, and dedicated her life to service.
Born on April 11, 1958, in Windsor, Ontario, Gina was one of six children born to Eugene and Freida (Parker) Steele. With a passion for learning and a love for animals, she dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. After graduating from W.D. Lowe Secondary School in 1977, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Windsor in 1983.
However, Gina’s journey would take a groundbreaking turn.
In 1986, she entered the Detroit Fire Academy, following in the footsteps of her father, Eugene Steele, Windsor’s first Black Canadian firefighter. Like her father, Gina forged her own path in a profession where Black women were significantly underrepresented.
Throughout her 27-year career with the Detroit Fire Department, Gina served in several roles, from Engine House #7 to the chemistry lab and Research and Development division. Through dedication and perseverance, she rose to become Chief of her Division before retiring.
Following retirement, Gina returned to her lifelong love of animals, working at Parkview Animal Hospital in Michigan, assisting with procedures and post-surgical care.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gina was a devoted mother and grandmother whose warmth, compassion, and strength touched those around her.
In April 2025, Gina’s extraordinary commitment to service was recognized with the prestigious Spirit of Detroit Award.
Even while facing a rare form of lung cancer, Gina continued to demonstrate remarkable strength and positivity. She passed away on April 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, compassion, and achievement.
Gina Mae Steele Hughes was more than a firefighter and leader. She was a mother, grandmother, caregiver, animal lover, style icon, and a woman who refused to let expectations define her.
