James Robert Stansbury

James Robert Stansbury (Rob, Robbie), age 69, of London, Kentucky, loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather, gained his angel wings on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family. Born May 27, 1955 in London, Kentucky, Rob was the son of the late Bob and Imogene Stansbury. Rob shared 33 years of marriage to his beloved, Kelley Bales Stansbury.
As a 1973 graduate of Laurel County High School, he excelled in baseball as a pitcher. Rob earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History in 2 years from the University of Kentucky. Continuing his education, he obtained his law degree from Salmon P. Chase in 2 years. Rob practiced law in Laurel County for 36 years practicing both in state and federal courts. He was licensed both in Kentucky and Tennessee to practice law.
Rob transitioned from his law practice into a full-time retired life in 2019. He enjoyed his family time, his fishing trips with his buddies, and golfing with his great friend, Fischer Proffitt. Rob loved being on the lake visiting with friends and walking the dock holding hands with the love of his life, and those special trips to Orange Beach, Alabama where he met so many wonderful friends.
Rob left behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and faith. Known for his warm smile and magnetic personality, Rob had an extraordinary ability to connect with everyone he met. He was a man who truly saw others, always placing their needs and feelings above his own. His humility, gratitude, and genuine appreciation for life and those around him made him a bright light in the lives of many.
Rob was a hard worker and a faithful friend; someone you could always count on. Despite being a private person, he built meaningful and lasting relationships through his authenticity and unwavering support. He faced his illness with remarkable strength and courage, never uttering a complaint. Through his trials, Rob's faith in God grew even deeper. He became a powerful witness for Jesus, sharing his faith with others and offering heartfelt prayers for those in need. In his journey, he became God's mouthpiece, spreading hope and love wherever he went.
Rob's life was a testament to the power of encouragement and positivity. He will be remembered not only for the joy and laughter he brought but also for the profound impact he had on the lives of all who knew him. His legacy of compassion and faith will continue to inspire and guide those he leaves behind.
In addition to his wife, Kelley, Rob is survived by his children, Kelly Ratliff & husband Jason, Michael Stansbury & wife Kelli, Katie Hallock & husband Jason, and Allison Stansbury & husband Brandon Haake; his grandchildren, Meredith & Liam Ratliff, Scarlett Stansbury, Aaron & Landon Hallock, and Loretta Stansbury. He adored his boy, as he would say, his dog Yeti.
Rob was preceded in death by his father, Robert Stansbury; his mother, Imogene Stansbury; his brother, Stuart Keith Stansbury; and his son, Matthew Bryan Stansbury.
Rob's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks for the prayers, encouragement, visits and acts of kindness shown during his illness.
The family of James Robert Stansbury will receive friends on Monday, January 20, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church located on 5th Street in London, Kentucky. A funeral service will be held the following day on Tuesday, January 21 at 2:00 p.m. with Marty Huff officiating, also at the church. Burial will follow at Cumberland Memorial Gardens in Lily, Kentucky.
The pallbearers will be Michael Stansbury, Jason Ratliff, Brandon Haake, Fischer Proffitt, Bert Martin and Bobby Scott. Honorary Pallbearers are Larry Worley, Mike Collier and Eddie Sutton.