Cecile Stephens Obituary

Cecile Stephens, age 86, passed away peacefully at her home in Belton, South Carolina, on August 2, 2025, after a brief illness. Cecile was born on May 19, 1939, in Martinsville, Illinois, to the late Mervin Bennett and Lulu Bush Bennett. She spent her entire life dedicated to her family, friends, and career. Cecile was a devoted wife, committed mother, loving grandmother, and cherished friend. Cecile had a great love for spending time with her husband and family. She enjoyed gardening, word puzzles, fishing, flea markets, and craft shows. Cecile was known for her unprecedented work ethics, as she worked in the service industry, providing exceptional service to her clients and patients alike. After retiring from her house cleaning business in Hobe Sound, Florida, Cecile moved to Belton, South Carolina, where she went to work at Maples At Austin Place. Cecile will be remembered for her unwavering dedications to her career, where she made a significant impact for those she served. Funeral services will be held at the Markwell Funeral Home in Casey, Illinois, on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Tom Marsh officiating. Burial will follow in Partlow Cemetery, rural Clark County, IL. The family humbly invites everyone to her visitation on Friday from 10 – 11 a.m. prior to the service at Markwell Funeral Home, 200 N. Central Ave., Casey, IL. Cecile is survived by her three children, Debbie (Don) Daughtery, Michael (Dinah) Stephens, and Monty (Cindy) Stephens, 16 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Her legacy will continue to influence the people she loved so dearly for generations to come. Cecile will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will forever be remembered for her simple, unassuming nature, and her profound impact on the lives she touched. Cecile was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 68 years, Dale Stephens, her parents, Mervin and Lulu Bennett, sisters, Lilly Remlinger, Suzie Hill, Ruby Cooley, Grace Bennett, Opel Bennett, brothers, Roy Bennett, Harry Bennett, Everett Bennett, Bill Bennett, Daniel Bennett, and Leo Bennett. To view the full obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle, or post photos, visit https://www.markwellfuneralhome.com. Markwell Funeral Home, Casey, IL is in charge of the arrangements.