Mary Ellen Purner Stone
Mary Ellen Purner Stone, 75, passed away on September 21, 2025, at Kings Grant in Martinsville, Virginia of long-term effects of COVID-19. She was born March 16, 1950, in Elkton, Maryland. She was preceded in death by her parents, Allen White Pruner and Mary Barahura Purner; brothers, Allen White Purner, Jr. and Steve Clinton Purner; sisters, Fran Purner McCool and Martha Putner Capenter, and nephews Jeffrey Allen Wiseman, Howard Hillhouse Stone, and Randolph Tyler Stone. She is survived by her husband, Vincent Courtney Stone and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
Mary Ellen earned her Limited Practice Nurse license in 1969 and worked in that field for two decades. She later trained and practiced in floral design, enjoying it immensely. A self-taught cook, she became well known to her friends as the best restaurant in town. Her creations were always a hit at church fundraisers. She provided desserts at a local restaurant and provided wedding and grooms cakes for several weddings. She was especially proud of her Mediterranean Chicken Soup and her Kalamata Olive Cheesecake.
Early in her marriage Mary Ellen took up Counted Cross Stitch and completed many fine pieces for family and friends.
Having a strong beautiful soprano voice, she performed in several choirs and community choruses, including as a soloist. She also served on the Parish Council and cantered worship services.
Mary Ellen and her husband moved numerous times during his Navy Career. The Navy said being a wife was the hardest job in the Navy. She hated that slogan. They were joined by a succession of friendly loyal rescue dogs who brought them great joy and laughter. She is survived by her beloved, Bree.
A strong-willed woman, she battled from a brain injury that left her unable to communicate and was coming back from COVID-19 when she contracted it a second time.
Services will be held in late October.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the SPCA of Martinsville and Henry County or to a charity of choice. Alternately send flowers to someone in elder care, to be given to someone with few visitors and flowers.
Norris Funeral Services Martinsville Chapel is serving the Stone family.
