WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ga. — Michelle Steele is remembering her son, Brandon Steele Jr., as a man full of laughter, faith, and love not just as a victim of a tragic accident.

Brandon, 24, died Aug. 24 after two boats capsized on a private pond near Hamburg State Park. Deputies say Brandon was trying to help friends when their boat flipped. During the rescue attempt, his own boat went under.

As Michelle flipped through photos of Brandon, she described a young man who lived each day with purpose and compassion.

“He'd give you the shirt off his back literally, like whatever you need. That’s just who he was,” she said.

Known for his goofy humor and “dad jokes,” Brandon also poured encouragement into those around him. Michelle says his spirit was deeply tied to his faith and gospel music.

“He

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