On Friday, Sept. 3, 2021, Eddie Stalnaker (James Edward Stalnaker Jr.) of Hayes, Va., sailed to heaven to meet his Lord while in the arms of the “Rose of My Life,” his loving wife, Rose Atkins Stalnaker. There to greet him was his dad, James “Buddy” Stalnaker Sr., and his mama, Charlotte F. Stalnaker. Eddie was born in Richmond, Va., and graduated from Hermitage High School in 1969.
Eddie is watching over his beloved wife, Rose, and his sons, J.E. “Joe” Stalnaker III, and Tracy Alan Stalnaker, and his “baby girl” Christina Stalnaker. Two sons of his heart, Chad Heath and Michael Biven, sons of Rose. Also, his dear brother, Linwood Ray Stalnaker; dearest cousin, Joyce Wynn; niece, Maggie Reams, and dearest friend, Charlotte Price. His coffee buddies and girlfriends from the Achilles Store in Guinea and many, many dear friends and neighbors who loved and cherished his friendship. He loved them all and wasn’t afraid to tell them.
Eddie was a member of Surry United Methodist Church, Surry, Va., since 1989 and was proud to teach Sunday school on occasions. He was given a number of nicknames during his career as a Lineman for C.W. Wright in Richmond and as Area Supervisor for Dominion Energy in Surry, Va., such as Eddie Rabbit and Surry Kid. He excelled in his work and was proud of his accomplishments as a perfectionist. Known for his infectious smile he was a hard worker all of his life and a protector of his family. He loved golfing, skiing, boating, fishing, cruising the creeks of the York River with his wife, Rose. He was her Captain. Music and dancing wherever the mood struck was his greatest pleasure. During his childhood his family spent most weekends on a lake or river. This tradition was carried on with his boys and wife. He enjoyed his retirement years living in Gloucester Point where so many wonderful memories made, boating with his mama and wife, cruising with the dolphins.
Cancer took his health, but it didn’t take away his love of life. He fought a valiant battle and carried his witty, flirtatious, funny, smiling, and loving characteristics with him to his last day on earth. He often said he was ready to meet Jesus.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the Riverside Peninsula Cancer Center in Gloucester and their amazing staff, Riverside Hospice Care who made it possible that he could be home with their expert care, and to Dr. Peter Zullo, our friend and MD.
In following Eddie’s wishes the family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Cremation Society of Virginia is handling the arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to www.vacremationsociety.com.