Stephen Jay Broaddus, a dedicated, witty, generous, and loving soul, was born on July 9, 1950, in Carterville. A true Carterville native with a heart as expansive as the horizon, his life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit. He was known to many for his wonderful humor, his culinary skills, especially with his beloved Broaddus tacos, cookies, and peanut brittle, and his joy in feeding the birds and squirrels. Yet, his greatest joy was his family, who he loved unconditionally and devoted his life to.

Stephen was a proud veteran, having served three years in the Army. He then worked as a technician at Dyno Nobel in Carthage, where his dedicated service spanned many years before his retirement in 1993. His colleagues remember him for his wit and generosity, always ready to lend a hand. Even in retirement, Stephen remained active, not just in his hobbies, but also as a beloved patriarch who took great pleasure in caring for his grandkids and great grandkids. He fought every illness ferociously, driven by his love for his wife and family.

Stephen is survived by a loving family that includes his wife Sara; his children, Melissa (Kenneth) Ginn, Terri (Joe) Walker, and Lori (Harold) Taylor; grandchildren, Brittney (Kelber) Alves, Dallis (Michael) Schaetzel, Amanda (William) Vester, Stephen Ginn, Brooke (George) Datum, Sam (Libbey) Randles, Liam and Laney Taylor; great-grandchildren, Jackson, Giovanni, and Jett Alves, Lelan Powers, Elijah Schaetzel, Jackson and, Baby Boy Vester, Hunter and, Riley Randles, and Luke Datum; brothers, Ronnie (Julia) Broaddus, and Mike Broaddus; sister Brenda (Louis) Holiday; and sister-in-law Mary (Richard, deceased) Broaddus. He was preceded in death by his parents, Treavis and June Broaddus; and his brothers Andy, Richard, and Gary Broaddus.

Arrangements are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home.