Kenny Stephens

Kenny Stephens, 64, of Annapolis, IL, passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at Select Specialty Hospital in Evansville, IN. He was born January 16, 1959, in Oblong, IL, and spent his childhood in the same house in rural Annapolis that he later called home. As a child, he often stayed at home with his mother while his older brothers helped their father in the fields. That being said, his youth was filled with playful adventures, like playing "Ghost in the Garden" at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, located just east of their house.

Following his graduation from Robinson High School, Kenny dedicated many years to Crawford Memorial Hospital in various capacities, from housekeeping and maintenance to skilled care. He later worked at Fair-Rite, and despite struggling with back issues, he found joy in assisting his sister and brother-in-law on their farm. Through his work with the farm, Kenny became a familiar face at the local grain elevator, spending many hours chatting, joking, and sharing his famous persimmon fudge.

Those who knew Kenny best could speak to his green thumb, which the man used to tend to numerous plants at home. He also kept a garden and canned much of his own produce. What he didn't use, he'd incorporate into a delicious meal. In addition to cooking, Kenny was also an avid baker and would supply his loved ones with cakes and persimmon pudding at various family gatherings, carrying forward the tradition set by his mother.

He enjoyed mowing so much that he cut the lawns of neighbors and family members. Another favorite pastime of Kenny's was crafting gifts for family and friends, including wooden ornaments that he would generously give away. He also gave away baked goods that he bought from the Amish store and extended his generosity to dogs, as he always carried treats for his four-legged friends to enjoy.

A collector of nutcrackers and eagle figurines, it was evident that he found joy in the simple pleasures of life. After all, Kenny Stephens was a simple man, yes, but a simple man who sowed the seeds of countless memories in the hearts of his family. We will never, nor could we ever, forget him.

He is survived by his brothers & sisters-in-law, Ralph & Millie Stephens (Pierre, SD) and Paul & Rosemary Stephens (Palestine, IL); his sister & brother-in-law, Nancy & Rolland Hill (Annapolis, IL); his sister-in-law, Rita Stephens; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold O. & Kathryn (Vaughn) Stephens; his brothers, David Stephens (in infancy), Glen Stephens, and Ray Stephens; and his sister-in-law and friend, Shirley Stephens.

Kenny is to be cremated, and the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of these arrangements.

His family will be conducting a visitation at the Porterville Congregational Christian Church Hall from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Monday, November 13th. Memorials may be made to the "Prairie Licking Fire Protection District", and envelopes will be available at the church hall.