James Roddie Stone

James “Roddie” Stone, 87, of Steele, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his residence on May 24, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Roddie was born on November 8, 1938, in Trussville, Alabama, to Earle and Mary Stone, who preceded him in death. He was the fourth of five sons and was also preceded in death by his brothers, Hoyt, Gene, Bill, and Doug Stone, all of Trussville, Alabama, as well as his beloved dog, Bama, and great-granddog, Ruby. A proud veteran, he served his country honorably in the United States Army. Following his military service, he devoted his life to his profession as a master carpenter and woodworker. His exceptional craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail were admired by all who knew him, and the works he created will serve as a lasting testament to his skill for generations to come. Roddie was a member of New Haven Baptist Church. He was also a devoted supporter of the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Atlanta Braves, faithfully following each season and enthusiastically cheering on his favorite teams. In 1978, he married the love of his life, Loretta “Lucy” Stone. In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his daughter, Teresa (Curt) Conard of Southside, Alabama, and his son, Brandon (Connie Money) Stone of Steele, Alabama. He was affectionately known as “Papa” to his cherished grandchildren: Haley Johnson of Rainbow City, Alabama, lovingly called “HaleyBailey”; Kylee Johnson of Trussville, Alabama, known as “SugarBooger”; and Hayden Stone of Gadsden, Alabama, affectionately referred to as “Lil Toot.” He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Louise Self and Jan (Mark) Colley, both of Steele, Alabama, and Linda Beatty of Ashville, Alabama; numerous nieces and nephews; granddogs, Harper and Finley; his great-granddog, Ivy, and many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly. Honorary pallbearers will be members of New Haven Baptist Church and members of American Legion Post 170, including Post Commander Bobby Cook and Adjutant Robert McKay, where Roddie was a lifetime member. The family extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Oluwole Akisanya, Nurse Practitioner Christina, and the entire staff of First Care Medical for the compassion and exceptional care shown to Mr. Stone throughout the years. The family further wishes to thank ProHealth Home Health & Hospice for their outstanding care, support, and compassion during this difficult time, especially Holly, Kayla, Sarah, and Cheyenne. Their kindness and support were deeply appreciated beyond words. The family could not have asked for better care. The family would also like to extend special appreciation to Veteran Service Officer Leah Harden for her kindness, dedication, guidance, and friendship, affectionately known to Roddie as “Taylor Swift.” Special appreciation is also extended to Brandy Lett, Beverly Oliver, and Kari Minyard of Deerfoot Memorial Funeral Home for their kindness, compassion, and assistance during this difficult time. A memorial service with full military honors led by Rev. Gary White will be held at New Haven Baptist Church on June 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International in care of New Haven Baptist Church, 11831 County Road 31, Ashville, Alabama 35953. His legacy lives on not only in the beautiful work he built with his hands, but also in the love and memories he leaves behind for those who knew him.

James Roddie Stone

November 8, 1938 - May 24, 2026