Dennis D. Stephens, Jr.

Marion Dennis D. Stephens, Jr., 84, passed away at 5:10 A.M. on Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at Heartland Regional Medical Center. Dennis was born September 24, 1921 to Dennis D. & Mary (Fisher) Stephens, Sr. in Williamson County. He married Vera M. Smoot on June 21, 1943 in Charleston, Missouri and together they have shared over 62 years of marriage. Dennis was an Army WWII veteran. He retired from Ameren CIPS after 27 years as a meter reader. Dennis was a member of Second Baptist Church, IBEW #702, and lifetime member of VFW Post #1301. Dennis is survived by: Wife Vera of Marion Son Gary D. Stephens and wife Debra of Sparta Daughter Dianne Stapleton and husband Stephen of Lake of Egypt Grandchild Rachel Erdman and husband Clayton of Seward, Nebraska Grandchild Travis Stephens of Sparta Sister Mary Parks of Crab Orchard Preceded by: Parents, 3 brothers, Carl, Jake & Elmer Stephens, Infant brother, 2 sisters, Gladys Alexander and Flo Phillips. Funeral services will be Saturday, October 29, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion with Dr. Bob Wagner officiating. Burial will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery. Military rites will be performed at the graveside by Marion VFW Post #1301 and American Legion Post #147. Visitation will be Friday from 5 P.M. 8 P.M. at the funeral home.