Wood River—Steven Russell Giddings, 66, rode into Heaven Monday, August 10, 2026 and was greeted by his loving mother.

Born Oct. 13, 1959 in Alton, he was the son of Grace Marie (Cannon) Giddings and Lloyd Russell Giddings.

A 1978 graduate of Roxana High School, Steve worked as a pipefitter for Local #553 in Wood River for 41 years.  He enjoyed camping and riding motorcycles.  After his retirement, he loved to travel, especially with his son Josh.  Known for his biscuits and gravy with secret ingredients, Steve always hosted breakfasts for his friends.  He also loved visiting several area restaurants, including Harvest Home, Bandana's, and Polly's.  He was also a proud church member of the Community of Christ of Wood River.

Survivors include his children, Joshua (Courtney) Giddings and Jessica (David) Meeks, all of Wood River, and Jude Giddings of Alton.  He was the best Grandpa to his two grandchildren, Carter and McKenna Meeks as well as his grand-dog, Lucy.  He will also be missed by a sister, Debbie (Ralph) Miller of Edwardsville, a host of cousins all over the country and so many close friends and other family members that they would be impossible to count.  Steve was friends with everyone he met and called no one a stranger.

Memorial visitation will be Saturday, Aug. 15 at Paynic Home for Funerals from 10 a.m. until services begin at 12 p.m.

Memorials may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

An online guestbook is available at www.paynicfh.com