Tributes pour in for Newcastle dentist, Prof Jimmy Steele CBE
The dental world has been paying tribute to a dentist who ‘changed the way dental services are provided in the UK’. Prof Jimmy Steele CBE, former head of the School of Dental Sciences at Newcastle University and a pioneer in his field, has died at the age of 55.
Prof Jimmy Steele received a CBE in recognition of his services to dentistry in 2012 and he had an illustrious career. In total, Prof Steele worked at Newcastle University for 28 years and he also played an instrumental role in determining how NHS dental services work and which kinds of improvements could be made. He was part of a team involved in the government’s 10-yearly Adult Dental Health Surveys and he was described as a ‘leader in his field’ by the vice-chancellor of Newcastle University, Prof Chris Day.
Prof Steele was diagnosed with glioblastoma almost two years ago. He leaves behind Katie, his wife, also a university professor, and two children, Tom and Jenny.
Head of the School of Dental Sciences at Newcastle University, Prof Mark Thomason, said that Jimmy had a ‘special place’ at the school and was always incredibly passionate about teaching and helping students to fulfil their potential. Described as ‘outspoken, decisive and clear thinking, Prof Thomason also praised his commitment to making education fun and insightful and said that he was always a caring mentor.
Professor Steele’s funeral will take place on Friday November 24th. The family has asked for donations to the Trussell Trust rather than flowers.
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