George Richard Stoker

George Richard Stoker, age 80, of 114 Johnson Rd., Troy died Saturday, September 1, 2007 at Presbyterian Hospital, Charlotte. George was born February 5, 1927 at Davidson County, NC, the son of the late Manuel and the late Anna (Huffines) Stoker. He was a member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. George served his country in the US Navy from March 9, 1944 to June 8, 1946 and in the US Army from December 14, 1948 to December 29, 1951. George was an avid fisherman and a lover of life. Getting up before the sun rose each morning, he welcomed the day with a cup of coffee at nearby Jack's. Known as the mayor of Johnson Road, George was blessed with many friends, both young and old. George was Popie to his grandchildren and they knew well of his loving heart, something he shared with many. He was often the one behind anonymous gifts to families in need and the first one to open his heart and home. Known as a hard worker, he took that same ethic to life, where he played as hard as he worked. George enjoyed a cold beer and a good game of poker, but was most noted around town for his legendary fishing abilities. George was also an avid gardener, tending his roses and teaching young ones the "proper" way to mow. George was a collector of things and friends and a man that shared his love for life to all that were blessed enough to be a part of his. He is survived by his wife Wadene Harris Stoker of the home; one daughter: Alicia Stoker Caldwell and husband, Doug of Charlotte; one son: Rick Stoker and wife, LeeAnna of Wilmington; best buddy, Tad Russell and wife, Claudette of Troy; five sisters: Ruth S. Pack of Huntsville, AL, Anna S. Beeson of Welcome, NC, Sue S. Blake of Biscoe, NC, Val S. Folkins of Tucson, AZ, Drusilla S. Ingold of Mint Hill, NC; one brother: Griffin Stoker of Hickory, NC; 9 grandchildren. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00-8:00 pm at Pugh-Troy Funeral Home, 211 North Main Street, Troy; other times at the home. The funeral will be Wednesday at 2:00 pm at First Wesleyan Church, 1368 NC Hwy 134 N, Troy with Rev. Jeff Ray and Rev. Wayne Preusz officiating. Burial with military honors will be in First Wesleyan Church Cemetery. The family is especially grateful to Shelia Greene, Kathleen Dixon and the people of Presbyterian Hospice, Mary, Kitty, David, Kenny, Bryan, Seble and all the wonderful staff for making the final days more peaceful. Memorials may be made to Presbyterian Hospice, PO Box 33549, Charlotte, NC 28233-3549 Arrangements by Pugh-Troy Funeral Home. Condolences may be made at www.pughfuneralhome.com