Cecile Stephens

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

About Us!

About Casey's Big Things: Your Pocket Guide to Casey! Welcome to Casey, Illinois, the small town with BIG surprises! We created Casey's Big Things to be your ultimate companion as you explore...
Casey Council Meeting.2

Casey Approves Major Park Recreation Project, Hires Firm to Find New Utilities Chief

The Casey City Council unanimously approved a comprehensive park recreation project costing up to $339,041.78 at Monday's meeting, moving forward with improvements that will enhance the city's recreational facilities. City...
Casey Council Meeting.1

Casey in Action Secures $40,000 Grant for Park Walking Path

Casey in Action received a $40,000 grant from the Lumpkin Foundation to support the second phase of a walking path project in the city park, representatives told the City Council...
City Council Meeting Briefs.Blue

Casey Council Briefs

Economic Development Initiatives: The Economic Development Committee met May 8 to discuss several initiatives including a Tourism Director position, Freedom Fest planning, a Business District Grant program, and participation in...
Casey Westfield Warriors.2

Warriors Advance to Face Red Devils on 14-Game Win Streak

The Casey-Westfield Warriors will face the Sesser-Valier/Waltonville Red Devils at 4:30 p.m. Monday, riding a 14-game winning streak into the playoff matchup. Casey-Westfield advanced with a 1-0 shutout victory over...
Casey Council Meeting.2

Casey City Council Awards Sidewalk Contract, Approves Utility Rate Increases

The Casey City Council unanimously approved awarding a $62,502 sidewalk construction contract to Wallace Concrete at Monday's meeting, accepting the low bid from among several proposals reviewed by city staff....
Casey Council Meeting.1

Utilities Chief Announces December Retirement; Police Department Adds Officer

Casey Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs announced at Monday's city council meeting that he will retire on December 31, 2025, ending his tenure overseeing the city's water, sewer, and electric operations....
City Council Meeting Briefs.Purple

Casey Council Meeting Briefs

July 4th Planning Begins: City Clerk Jeremy Mumford reminded the council that planning for the 4th of July celebration needs to begin soon. Mayor Mike Nichols asked the Downtown Improvement/Festivals...
Casey Westfield School Board.1

Casey-Westfield Board Approves Major Technology Upgrades, Facility Improvements

The Casey-Westfield School Board approved significant technology and facility upgrades totaling more than $76,000 during Monday's meeting, while also addressing multiple personnel changes as the district prepares for summer construction...
Casey Westfield School Board.2

Casey-Westfield Students Excel in Academics and Community Service

Casey-Westfield students demonstrated exceptional achievement across multiple areas while participating in unique educational experiences and community service initiatives, according to administrator reports from Monday's board meeting. High school students received...
Casey Westfield School Board.3

SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRIEFS

Summer Construction Planned: Major facility improvements begin after Memorial Day, with cafeterias closed June 2-17 for asbestos abatement and Agriculture/Industrial Arts Building without power for electrical upgrades. State Track Qualifiers:...
Casey Westfield School Board.2

Casey-Westfield School Board Reorganizes Leadership, Seats New Member

The Casey-Westfield School Board completed its post-election reorganization Monday evening, maintaining current leadership while welcoming new member Mike Fouty and establishing committee assignments for the coming term. The organizational meeting...
Casey Westfield School Board.3

SCHOOL BOARD BRIEFS

Election Results Certified: The April 1 school board election results were officially certified, with Mike Fouty joining as the new member after receiving 282 votes for a four-year term. Leadership...
Casey Council Meeting.1

Casey Completes $498,279 Housing Rehabilitation Grant Project

The City of Casey successfully completed a nearly half-million dollar housing rehabilitation program that brought nine homes up to code and assisted 19 low-to-moderate income residents, officials announced during a...
City Council Meeting Briefs.Blue

CITY MEETING BRIEFS

Grant Administration Success: The Coles County Regional Planning & Development Commission successfully administered the $498,279 housing rehabilitation grant with 100% of funds reaching qualifying low-to-moderate income households. No Resident Displacement:...