Daniel “Danny” Stephens, 80 of Sharpsburg passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 10:17 a.m. at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. He was born on April 26, 1944, in Taylorville, IL, the son of Howard and Clair Stephens. He married Frances DeClerck in 1964 in Taylorville and they later divorced. He then married Marilyn Schleef-Linder in 1991 in Taylorville. Danny attended schools in Taylorville and graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1962. He was a farmer who raised crops and cattle. He also sold and serviced trailers through his trailer business. He was a people-person who enjoyed being a vendor at the Beef Expo, the Illinois State Fair, and the Half Century of Progress Show. He was very devoted to his family and loved watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. He loved spending time in Colorado and watching sports and old westerns on TV. He had served on the Christian County Fair Board and the Edinburg School Board. He was a scorekeeper for Edinburg basketball games for many year. He was a Taylorville FFA Alumni.
Danny is survived by his wife: Marilyn Stephens of Sharpsburg, IL; children Mark Stephens (Terri France) of Taylorville; Mike (Michelle) Stephens of Edinburg; Shelly (Dave) Cappellin of Taylorville; Jenni (Josh) Sedlock of LeRoy; Cliff Linder of Springfield; grandchildren: Kayla (Kyle) Anderson, Katie (Ryan) Womack, Morgan Stephens (Tyler Neighbours), Garrett Stephens (fiancée Abby Boggs), Kent Girard, Carter Cappellin, Sidney Sedlock, and Lindie Sedlock; great-grandchildren: Beckham Anderson, Ava Anderson, Ella Womack, Tate Womack; sister: Bonnie Leach; niece: Kerri (Pat) Krell. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter-in-law: Chris Stephens and brother-in-law: Lyman Leach.
It was Danny’s wish to be cremated. A private family graveside service will be held at Bethel Baptist Cemetery. The family plans to honor Danny with a Celebration of Life at a later date.
Memorials may be made to Taylorville FFA or to the Taylorville Food Pantry.
Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
