Michael Ray Stephenson's Obituary
Michael “Mike” “Mikey” Ray Stephenson was born on December 5, 1950 and went to be with Jesus on July 18, 2021 at 9:50 pm. He was a devoted husband to Donna Kay (Eversole) Stephenson for 47 years. He was the father to Tonya (Stephenson) Younce and Jared Stephenson.
Mike was a member of the United States Army and was stationed in Vietnam for 18 months. He then worked and retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad after 41.5 years in Decatur, IL.
Mike was a faithful member of the Decatur First Free Will Baptist Church where he served as a board member, Sunday School Superintendent, CTS director and Youth Group Leader. Mike’s love for God and his church were evident as he drove so many kids in Decatur to church on the van. While he served many children food, his goal was to make sure people were fed both physically but also spiritually.
Mike was the most loving grandfather to 6 grandchildren (Sadie Younce, Sophie Younce, Cruze Stephenson, Wrynn Stephenson, Jax Stephenson and Sawyer Stephenson). He spent many evenings at soccer, baseball, softball, basketball games whether in person or online. He was their biggest fan and loudest cheerleader.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Ruby Stephenson and his siblings, Daniel Stephenson and Brenda Stephenson.
For Mike, the most important part of his life was his family. When Mike prayed he made sure to list each name of his children, son and daughter in law, brothers, sister in laws, and grandchildren and would pray for protection and guidance over them. Mike was the most selfless man, even when he was sick he was still devoted to doing things for his family and making sure that if they needed anything, it was done, regardless of how bad he might have felt. There were many times when he would go out of his way to meet others needs despite his own.
In his spare time, Mike loved watching his favorite teams: the Chicago Cubs, Fighting Illini and the Chicago Bears. He also enjoyed putting together puzzles and spending time with Donna in the garden.
Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM Friday July 23, 2021, at First Free Will Baptist Church, 2709 N 27th St, Decatur, IL. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM till 7:00 PM Thursday, July 22, 2021 at the church.
Burial will be at Graceland Cemetery.
Memorials: First Free Will Baptist Church.
Our hearts are grieving at the loss of his earthly presence, but we know that Mike’s soul is in the presence of Jesus and his Father in Heaven.
The Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Mike.
Condolences may be left to his family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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