It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Stephanie Lynn Hampton (Mullens), a vibrant resident of Mackinaw, Illinois, who departed peacefully on December 13, 2025, at the age of 51 after a courageous battle with cancer.
She was born on November 3, 1974, in Peoria to Steve and Angie Mullens and grew up in Hanna City, where she formed lifelong friendships through school activities and community ties. Central Illinois now mourns the loss of a woman whose confident presence and warm personality left lasting impressions across educational, performance, and social circles.
Stephanie’s early years in Hanna City revealed her outgoing nature, as she shone in choirs, theatrical productions, and on the softball field. She attended Logan Elementary and graduated from Farmington High School, building a foundation of camaraderie and self‑expression that carried into adulthood. 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 sharp communication skills led to a fulfilling career in media. Stephanie became a radio personality and beloved karaoke host at Memories in downtown Peoria, where she connected with audiences through humor, music, and engaging dialogue. These roles highlighted her talent for bringing joy to public spaces, enriching the Peoria nightlife scene with her energy and charisma.
In 2006, Stephanie married Randy Hampton, the love of her life, who cherished and supported her with devotion until her final days. Their union expanded her family, welcoming brothers‑in‑law Rob (Lanette) and Tony Hampton, sisters‑in‑law Jody Kruse and Gina Smith, and numerous nieces and nephews. Stephanie’s nurturing spirit strengthened these bonds, offering encouragement and love that bridged generations in Mackinaw and surrounding communities.
She is survived by her husband Randy Hampton, mother Angie Mullens, sister Toni Mullens, brother Josh (Anna) Mullens, and nephews Benjamin, Brady, James, and John, alongside her extended Hampton family. Preceded in death by her father Steve Mullens, Stephanie’s legacy continues through the familial harmony she cultivated. Services will be held with 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 her expressive talents in performance and media, athletic achievements at Eureka College, and profound devotion to her husband Randy and extended family. Her legacy endures through the joyful connections she forged on stage, on the field, and in daily life. In this season of remembrance, her memory stands as a testament to faith, friendship, and heartfelt presence within the central Illinois community.
