Gary Lee Stoneman

Gary Stoneman, age 75, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of Friday, February 20, 2026. He will surely be missed by his family and all who knew him.Born on April 20, 1950, in Pulaski, Virginia, Gary lived a life filled with deep devotion to the Lord, his family and friends. His family relocated to Rocky Mount when he was six years old and he lived in the Franklin County and Rocky Mount area most of his life. He loved playing sports, and competed for years in softball, basketball, and golf.Gary graduated from Franklin County High School In 1968. He was the class jokester. Science was his favorite subject, and he proudly served as Vice President to the Science Club in 1968. However, English was his least favorite subject.Gary was employed by the Virginia Department of Transportation and later by the Virginia ABC Board, from which he retired in 2006.Gary was an avid golfer, and he played with his Willow Creek “Wednesday Group” almost every week for over 40 years. He also played golf most Sunday mornings – he always said there was no better place to pray and talk to God than the 3rd green at Willow Creek. Gary greatly enjoyed bi-annual golf trips with his group of friends, which were some of the happiest times of his life…especially when he won. He regularly competed in the annual Roanoke Valley Golf Hall of Fame tournaments, often contending with his friend Hal Clary for the top spot. In 2015, Gary captured the Super Senior division title - a milestone that highlighted both his longevity and his love for the game.Gary was a one-of-a-kind individual – he will always be remembered for his legendary sense of humor. He had the most vibrant, infectious personality and his quick wit and fast comebacks were envied by many.He was always quick to share a joke or tale, eager to lift everyone’s spirits. He treated each new acquaintance like an old friend, shaking hands with every man and warmly hugging all the women he met. Above all, his kindness and generosity stood out—he never thought twice about holding a door open or helping someone in need, and he would gladly give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it more.Gary was a man of faith who understood God's teachings. He found salvation early in life and later renewed his dedication to his Lord and Savior as an adult. When Gary passed away, God welcomed him as a cherished soul, freeing him from pain and suffering, knowing he was unwell. We find comfort knowing that Gary is now in Heaven, reunited with his first-born son, Ken Stoneman, as well as his parents, brother, relatives, and many lifelong friends. We can only imagine the bear hug Gary and Ken shared.Gary is survived by his loving wife, Jan Bettini Stoneman; daughter, Misty Stoneman Burroughs and son-in-law, Kevin Burroughs; son, Grayson Phillip Stoneman and daughter-in-law, Madeleine Dellinger Stoneman and his little beloved granddaughter, Kennedy Parker Stoneman. Gary had wanted for a long time to become a grandfather, and he cherished every moment caring for Miss Kennedy, taking her shopping and spoiling her as much as he could. Gary is also survived by his sister, Trenda Stoneman Robertson and brother-in-law, Doug Robertson; brother, Richard (Dick) Stoneman and sister-in-law, Ann Chitwood Stoneman; Rosemary Crandall Stoneman; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws, too many to name.Gary was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth (Ken) Hanel Stoneman; his father, Virgil Kenneth (Kenny) Stoneman; mother, Alice Sue Stoneman (Waller); brother, Michael Lane Stoneman; and his grandparents.A service in remembrance of Gary will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at the Blue Ridge Chapel in Rocky Mount, Va. Pastor Philip Crandall, who Gary asked to officiate his service, will preside.In lieu of flowers and food, please consider a donation in memory of Gary to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to the First Tee of the Roanoke Valley.Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.