Cecile Stephens
May 19, 1939 – August 2, 2025
Cecile Stephens, 86, of Belton, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on August 2, 2025, after a brief illness.
She was born on May 19, 1939, in Martinsville, Illinois, to the late Mervin Bennett and Lulu Bush Bennett.
Cecile was a devoted wife, committed mother, loving grandmother and cherished friend who dedicated her life to her family, friends and career. She had a great love for spending time with her husband and family, and enjoyed gardening, word puzzles, fishing, flea markets and craft shows.
Known for her strong work ethic, Cecile worked in the service industry, providing exceptional service to her clients and patients. After retiring from her house cleaning business in Hobe Sound, Florida, she moved to Belton, South Carolina, where she worked at Maples At Austin Place. She will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her career and the significant impact she made on those she served.
Services
Funeral services will be held at 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 in rural Clark County, Illinois.
Visitation will be held Friday from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at Markwell Funeral Home, 200 N. Central Ave., Casey, Illinois.
Survivors
Cecile is survived by three children: Debbie (Don) Daughtery, Michael (Dinah) Stephens and Monty (Cindy) Stephens; 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Preceded in Death
She 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 and Opel Bennett; and brothers Roy Bennett, Harry Bennett, Everett Bennett, Bill Bennett, Daniel Bennett and Leo Bennett.
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. Her legacy will continue to influence the people she loved so dearly for generations to come.
Memorial Information
To view the full obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle or post photos, visit https://www.markwellfuneralhome.com.
Markwell Funeral Home, Casey, Illinois, is in charge of arrangements.
Latest News Stories
FBI raids the home of John Bolton
Lake Land College Adopts New Strategic Plan: ‘Education that Fits Your Life’
Clark County Board Delays Decision on Using Cannabis Funds for School Counselors
WATCH: Detransitioner gets a second chance at medical malpractice lawsuit against doctors
WATCH: CA Democrats pass congressional redistricting plan
Pew: U.S. immigrant population declines for first time in nearly 60 years
European Union says U.S. consumers will end up paying tariffs
WATCH: Illinois’ FY23 financial audit released amid criticism of tardy reports
Illinois quick hits: Anti-SLAPP bill signed; Chicago schools settles meditation case
U.S.-EU trade deal includes ceiling for European pharmaceutical imports
Supreme Court allows Trump to block DEI funding
Trump to probe Smithsonian museums for ‘woke’ ideology