Stephen "Fatty" Paxton

Stephen "Fatty" Paxton, born February 17, 1948, in Danville, Illinois, passed away on May 1, 2026, in Georgetown, Illinois. A dedicated heavy equipment operator, Stephen's life reflected a steadfast commitment to both his work and the community he cherished.

Fatty served honorably in the army and army reserves, a testament to his enduring sense of duty. His interests were varied and heartfelt; he found joy in motorcycles, fishing, the thrill of ordering new knives, and most notably, in building ramps for the Vermilion County Handicap Association (VCHA), underscoring his generous spirit and dedication to accessibility and support for others.

On May 3, 1980, Stephen married Catherine "Cathy" {Bina} Paxton at Kennekuk County Park in Danville, IL—a proud milestone in his life. Cathy preceded him in death, as did his beloved parents Joe and Patty Paxton, his parents-in-law William and Joanne Bina, his brother Joe Paxton, nephew Eric Bina, and special friends Kim Rummel and Norma Beresford.

Fatty is survived by his son, Luke (Ashley Boen) Paxton; nephews whom he aided in raising, Dylan Bina and Jace Bina; god-sons, whom he also aided in raising, Ryan (Abbey) Rummel and Jason (Bree) Rummel; grandchildren Ashton Pilkington, Keely Paxton, Kole Paxton, Knoll Paxton, Wren Paxton, Owen Parker Mariage-Tucker, Aryann Rummel, Lawson Rummel, Sloane Rummel, and Louise "LuLu" Bina; great nieces and nephews Quentin Bina, Ethan Bina, and Preslee Bina; and siblings Judy (Jim) Bruce and Chuck Paxton. Among his special friends, who were cherished companions throughout his life, are Karen Rummel, Steve Beresford, Butch (Tracy) Fullen, Jackie Knight, Bruce Capello, Jessi Biggs, and all his friends at VCHA.

Services will be held at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 200 E West St, Georgetown, IL. Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with Stephanie Spangler officiating. Burial will take place a Georgetown Cemetery, 449 E West St, Georgetown, IL 61846. Family is encouraging everyone to ride motorcycles for the funeral on Wednesday. 

Stephen "Fatty" Paxton leaves behind a legacy marked by unwavering loyalty to family, a strong work ethic, and a heart open to friendship and service. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Please join Fatty’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 200 E West St, Georgetown, Illinois 61846 is honored to be caring for the family.