Stephen Broaddus

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Stephen Jay Broaddus, a dedicated, witty, generous, and loving soul, was born on July 9, 1950, in Carterville, Missouri. 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, MO, 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. In the words of Helen Keller, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart." Stephen's life was a testament to this truth, his love and dedication palpable in every action.

Stephen is survived by a loving family that includes his wife Sara, his children: Melissa (Kenneth) Ginn, Terri (Joe) Walker, Lori (Harold) Taylor; his grandchildren: Brittney (Kelber) Alves, Dallis (Michael) Schaetzel, Amanda (William) Vester, Stephen Ginn, Brooke (George) Datum, Sam (Libbey) Randles, Liam and Laney Taylor; his great-grandchildren: Jackson, Giovanni, and Jett Alves, Lelan Powers, Elijah Schaetzel, Jackson and, Baby Boy Vester, Hunter and, Riley Randles, and Luke Datum; His brothers: Ronnie and Mike Broaddus, sister Brenda Holiday (Louis), 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.

As we remember and celebrate the life of Stephen Broaddus, we encourage all who knew him to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page. His life was a rich tapestry of love and dedication, and sharing your memories will help keep his spirit alive. Stephen's life reminds us of the words of Maya Angelou, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Stephen made everyone he met feel loved and cherished, and his memory will continue to bring warmth and joy to all who knew him.

Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Stephen.