Stephen Paul Wilfong, affectionately known as “Fong” in his younger years, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025, in Fort Myers, Florida, at the age of 81. A man of unwavering integrity, deep compassion, and quiet strength, Stephen was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
A committal ceremony to lay Stephen’s ashes to rest will be held on October 10th, 2025 at 1:30 PM, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, located at 2900 Sheridan Rd, St. Louis, MO 63125. As national cemetery services are brief, we will be holding a separate gathering following the service to share memories and honor Stephen’s life. Please join us, starting at 3pm, at 2015 Mall Street, Collinsville, IL 62234, to share memories over food and drinks. We welcome anyone and everyone to share a memory or story of Stephen throughout the gathering. All who loved Stephen are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Stephen’s memory to a charity of your choice.
Stephen proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm.
Following his military service, Stephen built a distinguished career as a Certified Public Accountant, founding and operating his own firm in Collinsville, Illinois. He split his time between Collinsville and Estero, Florida, traveling regularly to serve the clients he cared deeply about. His love for his work was evident in his commitment to excellence and the lifelong relationships he developed through his practice.
Beyond his professional achievements, Stephen had a passion for antique, classic, and high-performance sports cars, curating a well-loved collection that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and history.
Stephen is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara Lynn Wilfong; his cherished children, Stephen Paul Wilfong II, Lynsie Jayne Wilfong, and Stefanie Lynn Steely (Brian Steely), grandson Hudson Steely, and his sisters, Margaret (of Sydney, Australia) and Carol (of the Chicago area). He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Norma Wilfong, and his brother, Tom.
Stephen’s legacy is one of strength, humility, and moral conviction. He lived by the principle that “Character is how you treat those who can do nothing for you”—a value he embodied in both his personal and professional life. He was generous in spirit, quietly donating to numerous charitable organizations and always placing his family above all else.
Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora is providing the obituary information locally on behalf of the family.
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