Dorothy Vaun Stephenson (97) of Newton

Dorothy Vaun “Dot” Stephenson, age 97, of Newton, Illinois, passed away at 8:48 AM - Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Mercy Rehab and Care Center in Swansea, Illinois.

Private graveside services will be held with burial at the Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Newton, Illinois. The family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date.  In loving memory of Dot, memorials may be made to the Jasper County Senior Center. Arrangements are in the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois.  The obituary can be viewed, and condolences left by clicking here. 

Dot was born on March 26, 1926, in Vandalia, Illinois, the daughter of Clarence George and Pansy Dell (Tate) Boaz. She graduated from Vandalia High School. Upon graduation she worked for the Fayette County Farm Bureau. She married Otis A. Stephenson on August 12, 1946, in Paducah, Kentucky. He preceded her in death on July 6, 1999. When her children were nearly raised, she went to work as a stenographer with the Illinois Department of Public Aid as a caseworker.

Dot enjoyed being outside working with her flowers, watching the birds as well as painting.  She loved spending time visiting friends in the neighborhood as well in later years at the Jasper County Senior Center. Dot was an active member of the GFWC - Newton Woman’s Club, helping with many fundraising and charity projects. Operation Smile was one that held a special place in her heart. Dot was a member of the First Baptist Church in Newton, Illinois. One of Dot’s greatest joys in life were her children and grandchildren. She loved spending time with them, especially during the holidays.

Dot will be remembered and missed by-4 Children - Ron (Brenda) Stephenson of Fairview Heights, Illinois; Bob Stephenson of Newton, Illinois; Brad (Diana) Stephenson of Las Vegas, Nevada; and David (Peggy) Stephenson of Cumming, Georgia; 8 Grandchildren– Kristen (Michael) Hrasky, Jason Stephenson, Connor Stephenson, Hunter Stephenson, Alec (Caitlin) Stephenson, Emily (Bob) Unis, Ian (Abigail) Stephenson and Noah Stephenson; 10 Great-Grandchildren – Dane, Brady, Trey, Isaac, Elinor, Aubrey, Evey, Lindon, Owen and Autumn; 2 Sisters – Beverly Blunt of Vandalia, Illinois; and Iris Bast of Mattoon, Illinois.

Dot was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.