Barnard “Wendell” Stone, 94, of Pensacola, FL passed away Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

Wendell was born on March 7, 1932, in Blountstown, FL, to Arthur and Sylvia Stone. He was one of five siblings, having three brothers and one sister. At a young age, his family moved to Pensacola, FL, and Wendell made Pensacola his permanent home.

Wendell worked as a bartender before joining the US Air Force. Following his military years, he worked for Bolney Power Industries installing power poles, a job he enjoyed due to his love of outdoors. He went on to work for Armstrong World Industries and then worked for ECUA until his retirement.

It was during his time in the military that he met Linda Nelson. They were married on March 6, 1970. Wendell became a loving father to Linda's two daughters, Lisa and Angela. In 1972, their son, Nathan “Ashley” was born, and the family was complete.

1971 was a significant year in Wendell and Linda's lives. Linda began to study the Bible, and soon after, Wendell joined her. Within a year, both of them dedicated their lives to their heavenly Father, and were baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses. His family saw a change for the better when he made this dedication. They witnessed his willingness to make changes as part of his commitment to his beliefs, and they saw his strong hope for the future. He was always sharing his faith with his family.

Family time was important to Linda and Wendell. They enjoyed taking the kids fishing, going out on the canoe, and even took the camper to Disney! The family shared many happy years at the house Wendell built on Graupera Street. Ashley remembers music playing all the time. Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Roy Orbison were among the favorites. Extended family recall the hospitality shown them at the Stone's house, cousins playing in the yard, and the garden fence Wendell put up to protect Linda's gladiolas. After Linda's passing in 2013, Wendell continued his course of hospitality by hosting many fish fries and chili cook-offs at his home on Charlotte Avenue, remembered fondly by friends and family.

Wendell was genuinely interested in those around him. He made others the center of his attention. He asked many questions, listened patiently, and replied thoughtfully. His kind and gentle manner, along with his determination to endure, will live long in our memories and leave us an example worthy of imitation.

Wendell is survived by his daughter, Lisa; his son, Ashley (Cissy); and a countless number of spiritual children and grandchildren. We hold dear the hope of seeing him again when "all things are made new."

The family wishes to express our sincere gratitude for all of the prayers, comfort, and acts of kindness shown to us during this time. Wendell loved you very much, as we do. We ask that you keep Romans 15:4 in mind, one of Wendell's favorite scriptures, "...that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope."