Kenneth Ray Stanley

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 47 years, Sandra Willoughby Stanley, as well as his parents, Jim Stanley and Maybelle B. Stanley and brother, David R. Stanley. Kenneth is survived by Sheila Stanley Roberson, loving niece and caregiver and husband Louis Roberson; niece Vanessa Stanley Holden (Paul); great nephews Jason Ross Roberson (Erin), David Alexander Holden; great nieces Sara Roberson Holmes (Bradley), Molli Paige Roberson, Brittany Stanley Chaney (Richard); great-great niece Lillian C. Chaney and great-great nephew Emmet W. Roberson.

Born in Buncombe County, NC, Kenneth’s family moved to Wilmington soon after his birth, where he lived and worked for the remainder of his life. He was a graduate of New Hanover High School (1963), Wilmington College (1967), attended Tennessee Technical University and later completed his graduate degree. Originally desiring to pursue dentistry, Kenneth instead chose a career in education and taught in New Hanover County Schools for 32 years until his retirement. He is perhaps most remembered for his many years of teaching chemistry at New Hanover High School. After retirement, he worked as a Learning and Development Manager for Cisco Systems until his death.

Kenneth lived a faithful life, devoted to his Savior, Jesus Christ, the love of his life, Sandra, his work and the Pine Valley Church of God, where he was a member for over 50 years. Kenneth sang in the church choir, quartets and trios; played tenor saxophone; directed the youth choir and served with Sandra for several years as Minister of Music. He was a longtime member of the Deacon Board and served with distinction as Church Treasurer for 36 years until his death.

Funeral Services will be held at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, July 19th at Pine Valley Church of God with the Reverend Larry Horrell officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at the church prior to the Memorial Service. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 20th at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Kenneth’s honor to Pine Valley Church of God, 3810 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC 28403.

Condolences to the family may be offered at www.coblewardsmithwilmington.com