Robert John Stephens, 75, of Taylorville, IL, passed away at his residence on

Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Robert was born on February 19, 1950, in Taylorville, to

the late Duff and Alice (Stroh) Stephens. He married Leslie Ann Shanks on September

15,1984.

Robert proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and Air National Guard. He was deeply proud of his military service and carried that sense of duty throughout his life. After his time in uniform, Robert served as a police officer and later worked for the State of Illinois as a LAN Administrator at the Taylorville Correctional Center.

A lifelong gamer and tech enthusiast, Robert was always curious about new technology and loved sharing that passion with others. He was also an avid firearms enthusiast and enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and anything connected to the military.

Robert was a devoted sports fan who loved cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Steelers, and he never missed a chance to play or watch a good round of golf.

Above all else, Robert loved his family. He cherished every moment spent with them and will be remembered for his warmth, loyalty, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife: Leslie Ann Stephens of Taylorville, IL; his children: Joseph

(Brittney) Stephens of Alton, IL; Bridget Acree of Taylorville, IL; Kedra (Vern) Brown of

Pawnee, IL; Bobbi Stephens of Kincaid, IL; eleven grandchildren; and fourteen

great-grandchildren.

 

Robert was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Samantha “Peden”

Stephens.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., with a memorial service to follow at 11:00 a.m. on November 1, 2025, at Grace Baptist Church in Taylorville. Pastor Gerald McPhillips will officiate, and military honors will be rendered at Oak Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be graciously made to the Wounded Warriors Project or to the American Cancer Society.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com.