On January 11, 2026, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, Stephen Oliver Whidden, went to be with the Lord at 3:26 p.m. while a patient at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida. 

Stephen was bon on November 26, 1942, in Wauchula, Florida, to the late Griffin Milton and the late Ressie Mae Terrell Whidden. Stephen marred Peggy A. Strickland. Stephen worked for many years as an engineer and inspector for the Florida Department of Transportation. Stephen enjoyed fishing, spending time with family and friends. He was a honest caring man who could make a friend anywhere he traveled. He leaves a legacy with all of his family who will miss him dearly. 

Stephen leaves fond memories with his loving wife, Peggy A. Whidden, his children; Christopher Wesley Whidden and his wife Kari Whidden, his daughter, Teresa Ann Corbitt, his brother, Lance "Bubba" Whidden, along with his adoring grandchildren, James Matthew Barfield, Emma Raye Barfield, Amber Hamrick, Chance Taylor, great grandchildren, James David Barfield and James Liam Barfield, along with many nieces, nephews and other extended family members. 

Stephen was also preceded in death by his brother, Lane Whidden, his grandson James Adam Barfield in 2013. 

Cremation rites will be accorded at a later date by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle Chapel.