Terry Stevenson, 74, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, February 11, 2022, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on January 29, 1948, in Pinkstaff, Illinois, the son of Lindsay and Deloris (Davis) Stevenson. He married Debbie Young on February 24,1973, and together they have enjoyed forty-eight years of marriage.
Terry graduated from Lawrenceville High School in 1966. In January of 1967, he joined the US Air Force where he proudly earned the rank of Sergeant, serving as a Morse Intercept Operator during the Cold War in Germany. He earned the National Defense Service Medal for his time serving in the 6910th Security Group. Upon discharge, Terry attended Olney Central College where he met Debbie, the love of his life. The two were married and attended Eastern Illinois University where Terry graduated with a Business Management Degree in 1975. Terry worked as an Industrial Engineer for Champion Labs and later as a Packaging Engineer for twenty-five years. After retirement, he volunteered at the West Salem Grade School a few hours each week in the computer room, helping Mrs. Giese’s class with computer exercises. Terry was a member of the Lick Prairie Christian Church where he enjoyed being part of the various ministries.
In his pastime, Terry enjoyed watching sports of all kinds, football, basketball, and especially the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. He had a love for music and often searched for various music from Soul to Jazz, Country, and Gospel. He loved it when he would find new street musicians. Terry and Debbie loved taking beach vacations and later in life, any vacation they could take with their grandchildren. Terry had a passion for writing, poetry, and photography. He always enjoyed attending his grandkids school functions and sports. He often got them involved in a good game of dominoes which he greatly enjoyed. He loved his whole family and his grandchildren brought him great joy. Terry was a special person with dry wit and humor that made people laugh often. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Terry leaves behind his loving wife, Debbie; son, Nathan Stevenson, and wife Natalie; daughter, Lezlie Johnson and husband Mason; six grandchildren, Meagan, Madisyn, Kaci, Jayla, Drake, and Aubrey; sister, Linda Fellows, and husband Denny; several nieces and nephews.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Bob Stevenson.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 16, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.
Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 16, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Williamson officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Full Military Honors.
Per the family’s request, masks will be required. Social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.
Memorial contributions may be made in Terry’s memory to The Tri-State Multiple Sclerosis, Inc., or the Lick Prairie Christian Church. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Terry’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Stevenson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com