Dr. Stanley P. Werner

Dr. Stanley P. Werner, of Eads, TN, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on May 3, 2025, at the age of 86, following a courageous nearly year-long battle with complications from a stroke. In the comfort of his cherished home, Dr. Werner was graciously called home by our Lord. Born in Memphis, TN, Dr. Werner was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ronnye Werner, his mother, Ruth Starrett, and his father, Paul Werner. Baptized into Christ as a child, Dr. Werner lived a life grounded in faith. He was a longtime member of Faith Lutheran Church in Collierville, TN, where he continued to grow in his walk with Christ. Though he achieved great success in his professional life, he humbly gave all glory to God, often saying, "I have been so blessed. The Lord has been so good to me." A graduate of Whitehaven High School, where he played both the clarinet and saxophone, Dr. Werner began his collegiate studies at Memphis State University before enlisting in the U.S. Army. He served honorably as an Infantry Communications Specialist. Following his military service, he returned to Memphis State University, where he was an active member and President of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and also served as President of the Interfraternity Council. Dr. Werner went on to attend the University of Tennessee Dental School, where he graduated first in his class and served as President of his dental class. He earned both his Doctorate of Dental Surgery and a Master of Science in Orthodontics from University of Tennessee Dental School. A dedicated professional, he remained an active member of the Tennessee Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. He taught at the University of Tennessee Orthodontic Department and held leadership roles throughout his career, including serving as President of the Tennessee Association of Orthodontists. Even as many of his colleagues were approaching retirement, Dr. Werner continued to pursue excellence in his field, earning certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics-the highest standard of achievement in the specialty. Dr. Werner came from a humble background and lived life to the fullest. The rare times you would find Dr. Werner sitting was chairside treating a patient. He embraced life with passion and a competitive spirit, never one to shy away from a challenge-whether racing motorcycles and cars, diving, flying, fishing, boating or on his beloved tractors. He was captivated by nature and eagerly awaited the return of hummingbirds each spring, joyfully sharing that excitement with his children and grandchildren. He was deeply respected as a mentor, teacher, and lifelong learner. His generosity, compassion, thoughtfulness, determination, wisdom, faithfulness, gentle spirit, wit, patience, and resilience left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Dr. Werner had a rare gift for seeing the potential in others-often before they saw it in themselves. With quiet encouragement and steadfast support, he helped many realize their God-given purpose, nurturing their gifts and talents through the relationships he cherished. His gift as an orthodontist graced generations, leaving a legacy etched in radiant smiles which will live on as a quiet tribute to his life's work. Dr. Werner is survived by his son and business partner, Dr. Scott P. Werner, his wife Mary Angela, and their children, Mary Katherine and Sam; his daughter, Dr. Kelly W. Bridges, her husband Bob Bridges, and children, Natalie von Tagen (Tyler), Alaina Grace Beck, and Nicholas Beck. He was affectionately known as the "coolest" Dad and "Papa," a title that grew even more special and possibly more accurate as he became "Great Papa" to his great-grandson, Isaac von Tagen. He is also survived by his older brother, Ronny Werner, younger sister, Janette McKinney, and his beloved nieces and nephew. Services for Dr. Werner will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis TN, with Visitation May 9, 2025 at 12:00 PM CT and Funeral Service following at 1:00 PM CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dr. Werner's honor to Faith Lutheran Church in Collierville,TN, American Cancer Society, Tunnel to Towers or The University of Tennessee Orthodontic Department. "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord for He has been good to me." Psalm 13: 5-6.