Lonnie Dale Stokes

It is with heavy hearts that we share that Lonnie Dale Stokes, 75, of Rustburg, Virginia passed away in his home, surrounded by his loving family, on October 10,2025 from a sudden bout with pancreatic cancer. His transition from his earthly body to the presence of his Heavenly Father was a peaceful one. God was gracious and took him softly. Lonnie was born the youngest of seven children on Monday, June 19, 1950 to Silas Stokes and Josie Mae Taylor Stokes in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He attended high school at both Hendersonville High School and Howe Community High School in Indianapolis, Indiana, gaining a diploma from the latter. Shortly after graduation, he began his 30-year career with AFL/DixieWire in addition to attending night classes at Tennessee State University in Nashville to further his education and expertise His career at DixieWire was distinguished by his committed performance and the lifelong friendships he made with his work family. He truly understood the importance of "no scrap" in the wire industry. Lonnie is survived by his wife of 36 years, Mary Beatrice Stokes, Rustburg, VA; his stepson, Aaron Michael Wilson (Ginger), Rustburg, VA; their four children, Mariah LaValley (Caden), Myrtle Beach, SC; Nathan Wilson, Matthew Wilson and Joshua Wilson, all of Rustburg, VA. He is also survived by his former wife, Terry Stokes and their two adopted children, Walter Stokes and Tonya Stokes, all of Tennessee. He is survived by his siblings Wayne Stokes, Hendersonville, TN; Libby Golden (Don), Florence, AL; Sue Frazier (Gary), Portland, TN; Jean Williams (Terry), Elkton, KY; along with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Silas and Josie Mae Taylor Stokes, as well as two of his brothers, Wendell Stokes and Randle Stokes. Lonnie was known for his kind and gentle soul and presence. He was a quiet man, a God-fearing man, a truth-teller, a hard worker, a great provider, a fast car lover, an avid listener with a wealth of knowledge that he imparted to others when needed. He was a devoted husband, stepfather, and grandfather who enjoyed his family at every opportunity. He truly could fix or figure out anything - just as his grandchildren. He found happiness in the simple times - morning coffee on the back porch with his family while discussing their daily plans and wishing them well before they left for school or work. He also loved the big events and was heart warmed to see his beautiful granddaughter shine on her wedding day. He loved a crisp fall day in the woods just cutting logs for firewood to be enjoyed in the winter months. His willingness to help and give to others cam naturally, but he also took time to delight in life's little joys - especially Mary's meatloaf and German chocolate cake. He loved his wife, Mary, for who she was and encouraged her to be herself every day they spent together. All that knew Lonnie appreciated his quick wit, wry humor, and impeccable timing of jokes. He kept everyone laughing with his clever turns of phrase and subtle way of seeing the funnier side of life. He never spoke unkind words, as his mama raised him well. His passion was golf, and he enjoyed playing as well as teaching his nieces, nephews, and grandsons the finer points of the game. Nothing thrilled him more than seeing those same kids develop their skills to the point of beating him. Lonnie was truly blessed with a life well-lived. Upon learning his prognosis, he reflected on his life and was appreciative for all God's blessings. He was grateful to know that his "ticket had been punched, and he was just waiting on the train to pick him up." He chose to participate in "Celebrations of Life" with his family and friends in lieu of a funeral. He wanted to spend his final days remembering his past, the special connections and saying goodbye to those he loved. The celebrations were a combination of sadness and grief intertwined with hugs, laughter, stories, tears, food, and music. Lonnie attended Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg, Virginia. He wholeheartedly believed that Jesus Christ was the son of God, that he died for our sins, and that he rose again. He trusted in the Lord alone for his salvation. He was blessed with the knowledge that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Lonnie held close to his heart 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, "But I would not have you to be ignorant brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him." A private family memorial service to spread his ashes will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please spend your money on a meal with others and retell some of your favorite Lonnie memories and jokes. It is exactly what he would have wanted. Finch & Finch Funeral and Cremation Service, Altavista is in charge of arrangements.

Lonnie Dale Stokes

June 19, 1950 - October 10, 2025