Don Stockard

Donald N. Stockard was born in Waynesboro, Tennessee, to Herman Wayne and Willie Ruth Stockard. He grew up there with his three brothers.

At 17, Don joined the U.S. Air Force, beginning a 20 year career of service to his country. He was stationed in the Philippines, Thailand, and Germany, and completed three tours in Vietnam. During his time in Southeast Asia, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Service Ribbon with three oak leaf clusters, and the Marksmanship Ribbon.

In 1969, while deployed to Thailand, Don met Lee through a pen pal exchange. They wrote to each other for eight months before meeting in person. His heartfelt letters won her over, and in 1970 they married in Grace, Idaho. Together they spent more than three years in Germany, making friends and traveling throughout the country. Don's final assignment was at the University of Iowa, where he served as Sergeant Major for the ROTC Detachment of Aerospace Studies before retiring from the Air Force in 1977.

After retirement, Don and Lee moved to Utah. He explored different jobs before finding his second career as a corrections officer in Kane County and Weber County, where he eventually retired again. Retirement didn't last long-Don returned to work as a security guard at McKay Dee Hospital for three years. Having worn a uniform for so much of his life, he continued pressing his Levi's with a crease for the rest of his days.

Don loved fast cars, loud soft rock and country music, the beauty of nature, and Fox News. He and Lee enjoyed traveling together, visiting many countries in Europe and most states across the U.S. For their 40th anniversary, they celebrated with a cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. Don's devotion to Lee was fierce and loyal throughout their life together.

He shared a loving relationship with his children-K.C., Spencer, and Rena Thorp-and treasured his grandchildren: Alexandra, Charlotte, Lauren, Vera, Avery, Emmalyn, and Ezra.

Don is survived by his wife, Vera Lee Stockard; his son Kevin Charles "K.C." Stockard (Cindy); Jason Thueson (Kate); daughter Rena Thorp (Wade); and his seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Randy and Howard, and his son Spencer.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m at the Roy Ward building, 4524 South 2525 West, Roy, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to services at the same location from 9:00-9:45 a.m. Interment will be in the Ogden City Cemetery.

Services are under the direction of Myers Mortuary of Roy.