David Lee Stone

I love this photo of Dave Stone. I think it is a perfect picture to show his personality and who he was! I felt kindness and warmth from Dave the moment I met him approximately thirty years ago (Martha’s funeral). Before then, David Peters had told me about his “favorite uncle”, and I could quickly see why Dave was such. He was a sweet man, he was funny, and he was REAL. A few years later and for the span of about twelve years (1995 - 2007), I joined the Peters family on a number of trips from Ohio to stay with Dave and Carolyn at Smith Mountain Lake. They were both so wonderful to me; I immediately felt like family. Even after all these years, I still have so many fond memories of those visits. Out of the 20+ years that David Peters and I were together, the times we spent with them at Smith Mtn Lake were truly some of my favorite vacations ever. Dave and Carolyn made each visit so inviting and special! They were wonderful hosts and so enjoyable to be around, as were Shawn and John, who were each equally as gracious and kind. There are a few quite random but Dave-specific things I want to share that stand out in my mind: —First, I have to mention Dave’s “famous” PIZZA!! I don’t know what was better…eating the pizza or watching him take such delight in making it for all of us! —I think of Dave every time I say “Gunga Din” or when it goes through my head, which is actually quite often! He once told me I’m a “good ‘man’, Gunga Din.” He then told me about the movie (and poem?) and what the actual quote is. —I remember noticing the endearing way Dave was with Carolyn when it probably seemed to him like no one was paying attention. —He clearly loved spending time with his little sister, Suzy/Susie. —My last random Dave thought is not my memory, but actually, one Suzy/Susie shared with me when Joey was a baby (about 20 years ago). She told me about a time in the 1970s when one of his two boys asked Dave for candy. When Dave said “no”, it was accepted without further pleas or any fuss. Susie remarked about it and Dave said to her, “I say what I mean and I mean what I say.” That has stuck with me for all these years, and I have done my best to follow suit. I always think of Dave (and his sister, Susie!) at such times. Dave was a good man. I send my love and most heartfelt condolences to all of you…to Carolyn, John, Shawn (and Lori), plus Susie, David, and ALL who love Dave. Love, ~Jill Peters

Posted by Jill Peters on May 30, 2023

I will never forget how likable, friendly, hospitable, and gracious Dave was. He treated me like a great friend the first time we met at the lake one summer. Enjoyed golfing and boating together the next couple summers. Came back to the lake another summer with extended family and he was thrilled to come eat & visit with us and even had us all to his home for that famous delicious Stone recipe pizza. Good times. Great guy. Thanks for the memories Dave. Very sorry for your loss Stone family.

Posted by Kenny Casper on May 26, 2023