Stephen David Speagle's Obituary
Stephen David Speagle passed into the loving hands of the Lord on May 26, 2021. He was born in Decatur, IL on August 19, 1946 to Kenneth and Wanda (Shepherd) Speagle. He leaves behind Sue, his loving wife of 54 years, sons Stephen Jr. (Rie), Aaron, daughter-in-law Julia, grandchildren David (Melissa), Ariel (Dillon), Alyssa, Ariana, Sierra, and Emma; Great-grandchildren Brett, Hudson, Ryker, and Holden; brothers Edward (Kathy) and Gordon (Pam). He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly as well as his special dog Misty. He came to know the Lord Jesus Christ in November 1964.
Stephen was our patriarch, who loved his family, wife, children, and grandchildren above all else. He had a deep commitment to the union cause in general and the BLET in particular. Following his graduation from Eisenhower High School in 1964, he advanced through being a switchman, brakeman, fireman and engineer. He started with the Wabash RR and continued on with the Norfolk Southern RR, serving as local chairman and secretary treasurer of Division #155. He was elected General Chairman and later had the honor of being elected a National Vice President for the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen. Stephen received his private pilot license and volunteered for CASA.
Stephen was an avid book reader, especially history. He set a great example of how to love and be compassionate to everyone. He was a good man who is loved and missed by all. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and sisters Sharon and Diane.
Visitation for Stephen will be held from 1 to 3pm on Sunday, May 30 at Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow the visitation at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Voice of Martyrs, CASA, St. Jude’s, or PETA. Video services will be streamed at www.funeralvue.com/login/event#54882. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Stephen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Stephen?
Share a story where Stephen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Stephen you’ll never forget.
How did Stephen make you smile?