Stephen Furman

Stephen J. Furman passed away on May 29, 2026 at home in rural Girard surrounded by his loving family. He was 84.

He was born February 3rd, 1942 in Lisle, Illinois, the only son of John and Mildred Furman.

He graduated from York High School in 1959 and then attended Elmhurst College. There he met the love of his life, Carolyn, whom he married in 1965. After college, he began his career as an educator and he and his wife taught together in the Peoria area before finally landing in Virden in 1970. He wore many hats during his tenure, teaching English, history, journalism, coaching both boys and girls track, as well as being heavily involved in the Virden Education Association. He retired from teaching in 2002 but stayed active in the district and was elected to the school board where he served as president during the transition to the North Mac consolidated district.

He was also an avid collector, a radio personality, a music lover, an inveterate punster, a keen gardener, a purveyor of random facts, the president of the Trinity Lutheran Church congregation, and a dedicated Cubs fan.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 61 years Carolyn; his sons John (Nan), Joel (Gosia), Joshua (Carrie), and James (Sadie); his daughter Rachel; seven grandchildren, Alayna, Trace, Aaron, Sebastian, Andrew, Oliver, and Lucy; along with many other family and friends and former students whose lives he has touched over the years.

Per Stephen's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded by Airsman & Calvert Funeral Home in Virden, IL. The family will receive friends for visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Airsman & Calvert Funeral Home in Virden, IL. A memorial service will follow the visitation at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church (Girard).