Stephen James Guynn

Stephen James Guynn, 79, of Rantoul, IL, passed suddenly at his home on the morning of Sunday, August 11, 2024.

He was born January 26, 1945, in Champaign, IL, a son of Godfrey and Ruth (Simon) Guynn. He married Jo Ann Zelena on May 25, 1994, in Franklin, IN.

Also surviving are 2 sons, Matt (Sarah Kinsel) Guynn of Portland, OR; Jeff (Amy) Zelena of Athens, AL, a sister Jeanette (Vic) Holliday of Champaign, IL, 3 grandchildren, Tony (Bailey) Zelena of Phoenix, AZ; Daniel and Owen Kinsel Guynn both of Portland.

Steve graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1963. He earned a degree from Manchester College in 1970 after spending two years in India with the Peace Corps researching bee diseases. He earned Masters degrees in Education and Library Science, and completed a PhD in 1981.

Steve served in the civil service with the Department of the Navy, and worked for Indiana University and Indianapolis Public Schools doing educational evaluation. Later in life he taught in the Rantoul Public Schools, worked for the Urbana Parks District, did landscaping, and worked at the Rantoul Public Library.

Steve had a curious mind and was interested in learning about landscape gardening, literature, philosophy, and almost any topic. He spent many hours reading his countless books and sending specially chosen books to family and friends.

Steve loved music, especially jazz and blues, and took ballroom dancing with his wife Jo. He loved allowing his many dogs to make mischief.  Steve enjoyed working in the yard, painting the barn, and creating a lovely haven at their farmstead.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 on Thursday morning at Lux Memorial Chapel, 1551 East Grove, Rantoul. Pastor David Allison will officiate. Burial will follow at Maplewood Cemetery, Rantoul.

Visitation will be from 5 – 7 on Wednesday evening at Lux Memorial Chapel.