Bill Christian Stoner

Bill Christian Stoner, 81, of Corsicana, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, at UT Southwestern Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 6, 1943, to Clarence Moody Stoner and Evalyn Ruth Stoner in Grand Prairie, Texas, Bill lived a life rich in service, dedication, and love. A proud graduate of Keene High School in 1961, Bill furthered his education at the University of Texas at Arlington before answering the call to serve his country. In 1964, he joined the Army and served as a Medic at Kenner Hospital in Fort Lee, Virginia, where he took great pride in his ability to find veins on the first attempt. He was honorably discharged in 1966, carrying with him the values of service and compassion that would define his life. Bill's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly from a young age. At just 14, he began drilling water wells with Stoner Drilling, a family business that would grow and thrive under his leadership. In the late 1970’s the company expanded from solely the water well business in Keene into the oil business here in Navarro County. His dedication was recognized in 2006 when he received the National Ground Water Association's (NGWA) prestigious Ross L. Oliver Award, followed by the Life Member Award in 2011. Bill served on the Board of Directors of the NGWA since 1990, serving as President in 1997, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his profession and community. Bill was a member of the Texas Ground Water Association from 1977 through 2025. He served on the Board of Directors, including President in 1986 and 1987. Beyond his professional achievements, Bill cherished the time spent with his life partner, Merry “Su” Morris. Together, they traveled the world and enjoyed countless dinners with their close-knit group of friends. Bill was also the founder of the Navarro County 100 Club, reflecting his deep commitment to supporting local law enforcement and first responders. A true animal lover, Bill had a special bond with many beloved dogs through the years, ending with Lady, who chose him and only him. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Evalyn Stoner, and his siblings, Nancy Gail Hagood and Clarence Moody “Junny” Stoner. He is survived by his devoted life partner, Merry “Su” Morris; his sister Lynda Nell Bunch; his son Tom Stoner and wife Rosie, along with their children, Eric and Elisabeth Stoner; his son Blake Stoner and wife Amy, and their daughters, Olivia and Claire Stoner; and his son Brett Stoner and wife Amber, and their children, Braxton and Asher Stoner. Visitation with the family will be held on Friday, May 16th, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, May 17th, at 3:00 PM at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home with Daniel Harper officiating. Interment will follow on Sunday, May 18th, at 11:00 AM at Keene Memorial Park Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers include Don Denbow, Mike Dowd, Leroy Goodson, Mickey Hillock, Curtis McNeese, Eric Meyers, Ernest Rylie, Jerry Watkins, Frank Wheelock, Ronny Willis, Lowell Hudson, and Hartley Young. In lieu of flowers donations should be made to the Navarro County 100 Club.

Bill Christian Stoner

July 6, 1943 - May 12, 2025