William Alvin Stone

William Alvin Stone, affectionately known to many as "Dollar Bill," was born on July 26, 1953, in Crawford County, Georgia, to the late Alvin Stone and Mattie Lou Stone. On God's appointed time, William peacefully transitioned from this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, service, and cherished memories.

At an early age, William accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and united with Usher's Temple Church in Fort Valley, Georgia, where he began his lifelong journey of faith.

William was the eldest of seven children and proudly embraced his role as a big brother. He shared a special bond with his siblings: Ulysses Stone, Betty Small, Cathy Schofield, Gloria Stone Robinson, Stevie Stone, and Jerry Stone.

A bright and ambitious student, William graduated with honors from Hunt High School in 1971. He later attended Fort Valley State University, where he developed a strong interest in Criminal Justice. William possessed a natural curiosity and an eagerness to learn that followed him throughout his life.

In 1975, William proudly answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. His military service reflected the discipline, dedication, and commitment that characterized his life.

William was truly a "jack of all trades." He enjoyed capturing life's precious moments through photography, hosting family cookouts, reading, gardening, attending concerts in the park, and spending quality time with those he loved. His warm smile, storytelling, and easygoing personality made him a joy to be around. Whether lending a helping hand or sharing words of wisdom, William touched the lives of many.

In 2001, William married the love of his life, Joyce Brown Stone. Their marriage was built upon love, friendship, faith, and mutual respect, creating countless treasured memories together.

William was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Mattie Lou Stone, and two beloved brothers, Stevie Stone and Jerry Stone.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Joyce Stone of Jacksonville, Florida; his son, Alvin Stone (Shalanda) of Hampton, Georgia; his granddaughter, Al'Niyah Stone of Hampton, Georgia; and his grandson, Rodrick Collins, Jr, of Hampton, Georgia.

He also leaves behind his bonus son, Lorenzo Hunter of Atlanta, Georgia; and dear family members Flora Hunter, Debra Knight, and Dorothy Holloway, all of Atlanta, Georgia.

William's legacy continues through his loving siblings: Ulysses Stone (Pat) of Warner Robins, Georgia; Betty Small (Quintin) of Warner Robins, Georgia; Cathy Schofield (Jeffery) of Centerville, Georgia; Gloria Stone Robinson of Fort Valley, Georgia; and Minnie Booker of Byron, Georgia.

He also leaves to mourn his passing a devoted uncle, Willis Stanton (Susie) of Stockbridge, Georgia; sister-in-law, Glenda Davis of Fort Valley, Georgia; bonus children: Dametra (Carlos), De'Vonn, Corry, and Dametrius, all of Jacksonville, Florida; and godchildren: Jade Hollis of Fort Valley, Georgia; Mendez Hollis of McDonough, Georgia; Quandre Elliott of Fort Valley, Georgia; and Tameika Mangham of Warner Robins, Georgia.

William was blessed with many lifelong friendships that became family. He leaves cherished memories with his devoted friends Florine Ezell, his beloved neighbor; Shirley Von Hollis, Harriett Howard, Nathaniel Howard, Gloria Lane, Diane Meadows, Amy Oates, Jerome Smith, Ben Williams, Carey Wootson, and his extended family of friends from the Spalding Street Neighborhood.

William's life was a testament to faith, service, love, and perseverance. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His laughter, wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love for family will never be forgotten.