1998 Jeep Wrangler Car shakes/stalls/turns off when I slow

I live on an island where there are not many great mechanics. My jeep has been acting up lately. When I drive it and slow down either at a stop sign or traffic or because of a speed bump, the car feels like its going to turn off and has. When this happens, I sometimes put it in neutral and give it some gas and its ok, then put it back in drive when its time to go. This problem just started recently. There is also a noise coming from the steering. Not sure if it is related. Can someone please help. I am at a loss and wish I was back in the States.