Ray Lavaughn Stephens

Ray LaVaughn Stephens, 68, of Robinson, IL, died December 23, 2021, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, IN. He was born January 4, 1953, in Oblong, IL, the son of Harold O. & Kathryn (Vaughn) Stephens. He grew up in rural Annapolis, IL, and was a 1971 graduate of Robinson High School. On February 19, 1971, he married Rita Culp, and to this union were born two daughters, Jodi and Heather. If you were blessed enough to know Ray, you'd know that "tireless" doesn't begin to describe the man's work ethic. He was employed at Briggs Pottery for 28 years before they closed their doors before finding work at ATS in Lawrenceville, where he worked for 15 years before retiring in 2015. Even in "retirement", Ray busied himself with his side-business of 35 years, Ray's Mowers & Repair. In this capacity, he provided a much-needed service, doing good work with integrity and, at times, charity. This generous soul would often trade and barter for his services, a way to help those who couldn't afford repairs. You also saw his generosity on display through his work with the Robinson Food Pantry. Not only was Ray a board member, but he was an integral part of its operation. He would regularly make trips to pick up food and volunteer to serve every week. In fact, he once paid to have someone else's buck processed so that he could donate the meat to the pantry! Ray was something of a hunter himself. He loved deer season and passed on his love of hunting to his nephews, who helped him dress his last buck (a behemoth of a creature and a fitting last kill, indeed.) Family was of utmost importance to Ray, but his grandson, Cody, held a particularly special place in his grandpa's heart. In short, he meant the world to Ray. And he meant the world to us! His unselfish, generous spirit will long be cherished, and we will never forget him! He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Rita Stephens (Robinson, IL); by his daughters & son-in-law, Jodi & Rodney Parker (Robinson, IL) and Heather Stephens (Robinson, IL); by his grandson and best buddy, Cody Parker (Robinson, IL); by his brothers & sister-in-law, Ralph & Millie Stephens (Pierre, SD), Paul & Rosemary Stephens (Palestine, IL), and Kenneth Stephens (Annapolis, IL); by his sister & brother-in-law, Nancy & Rolland Hill (Annapolis, IL); as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold & Kathryn Stephens; by two brothers, David Stephens (in infancy) and Glen Stephens; and by his best friend, Greg Bowen. It was Ray's wish to be cremated, and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.