Elmer Randolph “Randy” Stone

September 19, 1956 – October 19, 2024

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/martinsvillebulletin/name/elmer-stone-obituary?id=56636770

The McKeryn Bridge Foundation has partnered with Cheryl Stone, Randy’s wife, to create the Randy Stone Scholarship (RSS). The RSS will be an annual award(s) that totals $10,000. The Foundation will collaborate with non-profit organizations that focus on vulnerable youth and adult populations who face barriers to success.

Randy Stone is truly special and someone who we will “never forget AND always celebrate.” Randy was a dear friend of Bob and Kathy Brown who founded the McKeryn Bridge Foundation along with Haden Edwards. Randy also touched the lives of many other Talis Park residents who grew close to the Stone’s during their time together as neighbors in Naples, Florida. Randy was also deeply respected and loved by his entire extended family.

Randy’s DNA: Warmth and kindness, great sense of humor, authenticity, empathy, strong communicator, confidence without arrogance, positivity, respectfulness, unwavering loyalty, unconditional commitment, integrity, honesty, discipline, courage, resilience and LOVE OF FAMILY. All these qualities will serve as benchmarks for selecting candidates for consideration of the Randy Stone Scholarship.

Reflections of Randy’s immediate and lasting impact: “The moment I met Randy, something clicked. There was an effortless ease to his presence, a warmth that made him instantly likeable. It wasn’t just his smile or the way he carried himself – it was the way he made me feel seen, as though every word I said mattered. Whether it was his Southern charisma, quick wit, or quiet confidence he exuded, I couldn’t help but want to be around him more and more. Some connections take time to build, but my first meeting with Randy felt immediate, genuine and unshakeable. Randy was authentic and kind, making every interaction feel natural and meaningful. Randy was always respectful and carried deep empathy for those struggling. Randy’s presence brightened the day and drew out the best in everyone around him – Bob Brown

There is no better feeling in the world than helping those less fortunate and the RSS will be even more extraordinary by recognizing Randy at the same time. There will be a formal Board review and vote and Cheryl will be a Special Advisor to the Foundation and approve the scholarship. The McKeryn Bridge Foundation will manage all grant applications and coordination with grantee advocates. The McKeryn Bridge Foundation will create an RSS annual letter that will provide an update on scholarship awards. The McKeryn Bridge Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization, all gifts are tax-deductible and every dollar gifted will be directly applied to the RSS.

Randy Stone Scholarship Application

Donate to the Randy Stone Scholarship Fund

Testimonials

A couple words I would use to describe Randy is someone who could be quiet one minute and the life of the party the next. He wanted to make sure everyone knew he cared about them. His beliefs on life, liberty and love of country were very strong. His time in the military was something he was extremely proud of but didn’t brag about. His loyalty to family and friends was special. When we spoke of his battle with cancer he said to me he would be ok but he hated what his family was going through. Always thinking of others and not himself – Ric Struthers

It’s rare when you meet someone you can call a friend, and they mean so much more to you. Our friendship began a few years ago and was cut way too short. I consider myself lucky to have known Randy. I will miss our kidding around and the many laughs we had. Randy was a fierce competitor with a never-give-up attitude, especially on the golf course. God Bless Cheryl and his family – Mike Romeo

Kindness, patience, and respect were his hallmarks. Always ready to lend a helping hand, he risked his life to save strangers, jumping headfirst into burning buildings. He put his life on the line for millions of people he never met but always respected. This man was a true hero, a one-of-a-kind individual, and a gentleman among men. He was one of the most stand-up men I’ve ever encountered. Despite his remarkable qualities, he was also a man who always had your back. He was a brother who stood by your side through thick and thin, offering unconditional support and never judgment. He was a friend that people only dream of having in their lives. Randy checked every box and was truly exceptional. He embodied the essence and pure definition of a gentleman, a hero, and most importantly, a friend and brother to those fortunate enough to call him such – Missy & Sam Ruddy

“From the very first day we met during his first drive through Talis, through the holidays spent with family and the fun filled golf trips, Randy was the person you could always rely on to speak the truth. His honesty always came from a place of love and care. His heart and determination poured into everything he did, and his energy and passion were simply contagious. Randy made everyone around him want to be better, to push themselves further, and to aim higher. On the golf course, Randy was a true force, but in life, he was even more powerful. Above all, he had a unique gift of making everyone feel better about themselves. The impact he had on each of us is immeasurable. We will forever remember how much he elevated our lives—how much better he made us all, and how much better he made this world. Randy, your influence will live on with us, always. Rest in peace, my friend. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten” – Anthony & Lisa Emma