William Luke Stevens

William Luke Stevens, beloved son of Luke and Brittany Stevens, arrived on November 4, 2025, at 9:24 PM. Born at just 23 weeks, he weighed 1 lb 4 oz and measured 11½ inches long. From his first breath, William showed remarkable strength and a fighting spirit that touched every life around him.

William spent his first three weeks at Saint Joseph Hospital in South Bend, Indiana, where he received extensive medical care and support. From oscillators and ventilators to the antibiotics, IV drips, medications, blood transfusions, careful swaddling, warm hands, loving smiles, and mamma’s milk—every moment of his care reflected deep dedication and love.

“For thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.”
Psalm 139:13-14

Though small, William’s personality shone brightly. He loved to be tucked in and tightly swaddled. He adored being held and often wrapped his tiny fingers around yours. He even enjoyed the taste of honey—especially when a bit of medical honey found its way into his mouth. William was ticklish, sweet, and full of quiet charm. His long fingers and toes, just like his daddy’s, peeked out often. His parents fell deeper in love him more everyday.

“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee….”
Jeremiah 1:5a

At four weeks old, William was airlifted to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, where specialists performed surgery to fight an intestinal infection. The procedure was successful. His vitals were stable for a few days and then began to decline. He fought well but his fragile body was not strong enough. His doctors and nurses did everything in their power to help him and keep him comfortable.
Around 2:00 AM on December 2, 2025, with a weight of 2 lbs, 7.5 oz. and a length of 11.7 inches, William took his last breath. He no longer struggled, but instead received a healed body in the presence of our Savior.

“Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: And the fruit of the womb is his reward.”
Psalm 127:3

William is deeply loved by his parents, Luke and Brittany Stevens, and cherished by his grandparents Sueellen Dillsworth and Tim & Jennifer Stevens. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles Ryan & Crislyn Dillsworth (Emma and Easton); Paul Stevens; Mark Stevens (Julianna); Elisabeth & Chadwick Slabaugh (Heidi); Daniel & Priscila Stevens (Phebe); Jared & Mary Bunner. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, William Dillsworth Sr. and his sister, Opal Joy Stevens.

Weather permitting, a short graveside burial will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Highland Cemetery in the Garden of Peace and Remembrance, located at 2257 Portage Ave South Bend, IN  46616.

Following the burial, a memorial service will take place at Fellowship Baptist at 6:00 PM, and all are welcome to attend.

Gifts can be brought to the memorial or sent to Luke and Brittany. Please contact Lizz Slabaugh (574) 440-3668 for details.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.