Paul E. Stevens

Paul Eldon Stevens, 64, of Cowden, IL, passed away Thursday, August 27, 2026, in his residence.

Masonic rites will be conducted at 12:45 p.m. followed by funeral services at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, Shelbyville, IL, with Pastor Steve Neville officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 2nd in the funeral home. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Shelbyville, IL. Memorials may be given to Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Paul was born on February 17, 1962, in Shelbyville, IL, the son of Lawrence Eldon and Roberta May (Portwood) Stevens. He graduated from Shelbyville High School in the Class of 1980. He worked as a machine operator at Graphic Packaging, retiring after 25 years. Paul was a proud father and grandfather and a gifted storyteller and nickname giver. He was always up for an adventure, whether it was coming to grab the grandkids, taking people out to eat, or planning a last-minute road trip. Paul also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and was a music fanatic. He was a member of the Jackson Masonic Lodge #53 of Shelbyville, IL, Shelby County Shrine Club, and was affiliated with the Cowden Free Methodist Church. Paul will be remembered for his love of God and his desire to share his faith with others.

Paul is survived by his daughters, Ashley Jones (Tanner Johns) of Cowden, IL, and Britany Riley and husband Tim of Shelbyville, IL; sisters, Joyce Irene Pendlay of Cowden, IL, and Beverly Eldona Hopkins of Seneca, MO; and seven grandchildren, Aiden, Jayde, Kenley, Taylor, Easton, Brenna, and Lauren.

He was preceded in death by parents; sisters, Sherrie Collins, Shirley Arkebauer, Pamela Brown, Marla Powers, and Roberta Stevens; brother, Ralph Darin Stevens; and niece, Kristal Brown.