Mary "Linda" Stephens, 63, of Springfield, died at 9:46 p.m. on Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at St. John's Hospital. Linda was born March 18, 1953, in Springfield, the daughter of Carl W. and Theresa Marie Kohlrus Biesenthal. She married Murrel Dean Stephens on September 29, 1973 in Springfield; he preceded her in death on September 8, 2015. Linda graduated from Lanphier High School in 1971 and was a homemaker for most of her life. She enjoyed cross-stitching, spending time with her family, and traveling to Las Vegas with her husband. She was also preceded in death by her mother, Theresa Biesenthal; grandson, Matthew D. Stephens; sister, Donna Kinzora; and her beloved dog, Murphee. She is survived by her daughters, Courtney, Megan, and Abigail Stephens, all of Springfield; grandchildren, Kaden Dougherty, Elijah Stephens-Merano, and one granddaughter on the way; father, Carl Biesenthal of Mt. Olive; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 12:30 1:15 p.m. on Tuesday, September 20, 2016 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Graveside Ceremony: 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 20, 2016 at Camp Butler National Cemetery with Chaplain John Nelson officiating.
