BIG-UN is no longer with us and is driving the big highway in the sky.

Wilton B. "Scooper" Stephenson, 79, of Alexander, IL, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital.

He was born July 2, 1946, in Jacksonville, the son of Wendell Sr. and Frances (Farmer) Stephenson. Wilton first married Betty Wallace and later divorced. He then married Sally Gleason, and she preceded him in death. Wilton lived the rest of his days with his partner and companion, Cheri Adams.

Wilton is survived by his companion, Cheri of Jacksonville; children, Reggie (Linda) Stephenson and Shelley (Don) Shive, both of Ashland, and Justin Stephenson of Alexander; stepdaughter, Angie March; grandchildren, Cassie (Chris) Veach, Brendon (Kara) Little, and Rachel Little; step-granddaughter, Megan March; four great grandchildren; siblings, Wendell "Junior" Stephenson of Jacksonville, Wanda Speaker of Louisville, KY, and Brenda (Dick) Matthews of Jacksonville; and many nieces and nephews. Wilton was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Sally.

Wilton was baptized at Berea Christian Church, where he attended for several years. He loved sprint car racing and collecting classic farm tractor and farm toy models. He also enjoyed going to Jacksonville Speedway.

Scooper graduated from Ashland High School, where he was an FFA member. During and after school, he worked for several farmers, mainly Ward Petefish. He then farmed on his own for several years before starting his truck driving career. Scooper started at Al's Ready Mix Trucking, later worked for York Farms Trucking for thirty years, and most recently, for Richardson Farms Trucking. You could always see him coming down the road with a cigar in his mouth, and he always had a smile and a story. Scooper had never met a stranger and will be deeply missed by many.

A visitation for Wilton will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 PM Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville. A private graveside service will be held at Berea Cemetery near Ashland. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to Prairieland Heritage Museum or Jacksonville Speedway. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of the arrangements.