Stephanie Lynn Hampton “Mullens”, a beloved resident of Mackinaw, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, at the age of 51, following a courageous battle with cancer that showcased her unyielding strength and faith.
Born on November 3, 1974, in Peoria to Steve and Angie Mullens, she grew up in Hanna City, forming lifelong friendships through school activities and community ties in the Peoria area. The central Illinois region mourns the loss of a woman whose big personality and confident presence left enduring warmth in educational, performance, and social circles.
Stephanie’s childhood in Hanna City nurtured her outgoing nature, shining on stage in choirs, theatrical productions, and the softball field where her athletic prowess contributed to team successes. She attended Logan Elementary and graduated from Farmington High School, building a foundation of camaraderie and expression that carried into adulthood. Continuing her education at Eureka College, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Communications in 1996, excelling as a four-year softball letterwinner whose records in walks and games played stood for years.
Her dynamic stage presence and witty communication skills led to a fulfilling career in media, serving as a radio personality and beloved karaoke host at Memories in downtown Peoria. These roles allowed her to connect with audiences through humor, music, and engaging dialogue, reflecting a lifestyle enriched by performance arts and community entertainment in the Peoria nightlife scene.
In 2006, Stephanie married Randy Hampton, the love of her life, who cherished and supported her devotedly until her final days, treating her with the reverence she deserved. This union expanded her family, welcoming brothers-in-law Rob (Lanette) and Tony Hampton, sisters-in-law Jody Kruse and Gina Smith, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Stephanie is survived by husband Randy Hampton, mother Angie Mullens, sister Toni Mullens, brother Josh (Anna) Mullens, and adored nephews Benjamin, Brady, James, and John, alongside her extended Hampton family. Preceded in death by father Steve Mullens, her legacy persists through the familial harmony she cultivated. Services include visitation on December 21, 2025, from 4-8 p.m. at St. Jude Catholic Church in Peoria, followed by additional visitation, Mass at 11 a.m., luncheon, and burial at Cottonwood Cemetery in Hanna City on December 22.
Stephanie Lynn Hampton (Mullens) lived a life well lived, distinguished by expressive talents in performance and media, athletic achievements at Eureka College, and profound devotion to husband Randy and extended family in Mackinaw, Illinois. Her legacy endures through the joyful connections she forged on stage, field, and in daily life, inspiring appreciation for confident spirit and relational depth.