CHOCTAW, Miss. – (March 9, 2026) It is with profound sadness that the Tribe announces the passing of current Bogue Homa Councilwoman Berdie M. Steve on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Councilwoman Steve passed away at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, Mississippi surrounded by her family. She was also a gifted artisan as a Choctaw basket weaver. Her works of art are cherished possessions to those who have them.
First elected in June 1999, Councilwoman Steve served the Bogue Homa Community for five terms, totaling over 18 years of service to the Choctaw people. Berdie was first elected for three consecutive terms (12 years), and then two additional terms over the years. During her tenure, she served as the chair of the Housing, Judicial Affairs and Law & Order, and most recently the Culture Committee. Councilwoman Steve had the honor of serving as a representative under the last four Tribal Chiefs: Phillip Martin (1999-2007), Beasley Denson (2007-2011), Phyliss Anderson (2015-2019), and Cyrus Ben (2023-until her passing).
A 1966 graduate of Choctaw Central High School, Berdie began working for the Tribe in 1974 as the Community Health Technician for the Bogue Homa Community for almost nine years before moving to the Choctaw Health Center in 1983 as the Community Service Counselor. She left employment with the Tribe in 1984, until she was elected to the Tribal Council in 1999.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bogue Homa Councilwoman Berdie Steve, a respected colleague, devoted public servant, and friend. A proud Chahta Ohoyo, Berdie was a strong and unwavering voice for her community and our Tribe,” said Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben. “She carried her responsibilities with purpose and conviction, always striving to create meaningful and lasting progress for our people. It was an honor to serve alongside Berdie. I valued our conversations, her insight, and her steadfast commitment to working together for the betterment of our Tribe. Her leadership was grounded in service, integrity, and a genuine love for the Choctaw people.”
According to Article VI, Sec. 2 of the Tribal Constitution, the Tribal Chief shall call for a special election, within sixty (60) days, for the purpose of filling the vacancy.
