Four Oaks, NC: Mr. Willis Elbert “Will” Stanley, age 79, passed away on Monday, July 6, 2026 at UNC Johnston Health in Smithfield, NC, surrounded by his loving family. The family will hold a Memorial Service will be held 11:00AM-Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Oliver’s Grove Baptist Church, Four Oaks, NC. Rev. David Sutphin will officiate. The family will receive friends following the memorial service.

Mr. Stanley was born in Johnston County, NC, to the late Elbert Stanley and Pauline Cordell Stanley. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Regina Stanley, brother, Elbert Stanley, and sisters, Jean Byrd, Hazel Overbee, Rena Allen, Katie Woodall, and his horse, Gypsy. In his earlier years of life, he worked with Sylvania in Smithfield, NC and Telex in Raleigh, NC. He also was sale clerk with Dunn’s Gas and Grocery in Four Oaks, NC. He loved riding horses, mowing grass and working his yards, Christmas Decorating, and his shopping trips with his sisters.

Survivors include his son, Jason Stanley; sisters, Hilda S. Lawrence, and Alice S. Bailey; several nieces and nephews.

The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.

Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Four Oaks, NC.