Lynn D. Stephens

Lynn D. Stephens, 87, of Robinson, IL, died on January 30, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family.

Lynn was born on March 27, 1938, in Sidell, IL, to Denzil and Ruth (Elliott) Stephens. He grew up learning the value of determination, curiosity, and hard work—traits that stayed with him throughout his life. He graduated from Hutsonville High School in 1956, carrying with him a quiet competitiveness and a deep sense of responsibility.

After high school, Lynn went to work at Caterpillar in Peoria, IL, before returning closer to home. He later joined L.S. Heath & Sons in 1959, transitioning with the company to Hershey. He remained there until his retirement in 1997, earning a reputation as a man who could be counted on. Mechanically and electrically gifted, Lynn was always willing to figure out how to make something work. If something was broken or needed to be built, Lynn believed it could be done, and more often than not, he proved himself right.

On July 7, 1957, Lynn was first married to Rebecca Jo Mikeworth, and together they welcomed three children: Perry, Shelly, and Mike. On December 30, 1971, he married Vickie Lee Hoke. They shared many years together until her passing on May 15, 2008. Later in life, Lynn found companionship again and married Miraflor Madarimot on August 30, 2017.

Family mattered deeply to Lynn. He was determined, but that determination was rooted in love. Evening dinners and Sunday meals were important rhythms in his life, as was time spent talking—often spiritedly—about politics and current events. Fourth of July fish fries became special family traditions, as did camping trips, game nights, and the simple joy of being together. He took pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, finding purpose in the generations that followed him.

Lynn had a creative mind and a restless energy. He was a busybody in the best sense of the word, always working on a project—woodworking, fixing, building, or improving something. He cared deeply about conservation and the land, owning a small farm where he raised animals, tended gardens, and spent time fishing and hunting.

One of Lynn’s greatest passions was archaeology and local history. He was a founding member of the Central Wabash  Archaeology Chapter and served as President, giving his time and attention to preserving history and understanding the people who came before us. That same love of the past also led him to serve as a board member of the Crawford County Historical Society Museum—work that fit him well, because he didn’t just enjoy history; he wanted to protect it.

Above all, Lynn was a man of faith. He believed in God—the “Good Lord,” as he often said—and lived out that faith quietly and sincerely. He was a longtime member of Flat Rock United Methodist Church, where his beliefs found both expression and community.

Lynn was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Vickie; his brothers, Jamie Stephens, Larry Stephens, and Gilbert Stephens; and his sister, Lois Harris.

He is survived by his wife, Miraflor Stephens; his children, Mike (Christy) Stephens, Perry (Anna Marie) Stephens, Shelly (Terry) Martin, K.L. (Rhonda) Kimmel, and Zharina Stephens; 15 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Leah (Larry) Buser, Margie (Charles) Jackson, Stanley (Diana) Stephens, Phillip (Janey) Stephens, Martin (Roberta) Stephens, Roger Stephens, and Robert Stephens; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Private family services will be held at a later date with burial at the Hardinville Cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is assisting the family at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Wabash Archaeology Chapter, with envelopes available at the funeral home.