James Lovell "Bubba" Stockdale

A Life of Service, Love, and Legacy

A true servant of God and a giant among men, Mr. James Lovell Stockdale Jr., affectionately known as "Bubba," peacefully exchanged mortality for immortality on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at his daughter's home. In a quiet moment of surrender, he sat down, leaned back with his hands gently folded across his chest, and peacefully returned his soul to God.

James was born on August 10, 1956, to the late James Lovell Stockdale Sr. and Eliza Kidd-Stockdale. He was a man of great integrity, compassion, and humility. With a giving spirit, kind heart, and gentle soul, James never met a stranger-his presence was warm, approachable, and always willing to help. He would go above and beyond for anyone in need.

At an early age, James professed his faith in Christ at Lane Chapel CME Church, where he served faithfully in numerous leadership roles. Led by the Spirit, he later joined Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church, where his calling deepened. He served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, Sunday School Superintendent, Church Treasurer, Bible Teacher, Overseer of Church Grounds and Cemetery, and was affectionately known as the "jack of all trades" for his maintenance work-often alongside his brother-in-law. James remained a devoted member and faithful servant until his transition.

A proud 1974 graduate of Munford High School, James was a firm believer in hard work. He often said, "I don't want anyone to give me nothing-just open the door, and I'll get it myself." True to his word, he held several jobs in his youth and went on to work in the textile and plywood industries before entering public service. He retired honorably from the Department of the Army, (ANMC) Anniston Munitions Center at Anniston Army Depot. To add to his accomplishments, he received the Commander's Shield and Plaque for outstanding services to Anniston Munition Center in 2022. Over the years, he held various leadership positions, including Line Tender Team Leader at Georgia Pacific Corporation, Operations Specialist Lead at GP Strategies, and Explosives Operator at AAD, where he worked in demilitarization operations.

James was a devoted family man. He deeply loved his family-cherishing his siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins-and played a vital role in helping raise his sister's children and grandchildren. Following in his father's footsteps, he embraced gardening, becoming the family's primary gardener. Together with Noone, his brother in-law, they took pride in providing fresh vegetables to both loved ones and the community.

Known far and wide as the go-to maintenance man, James always had a solution and a helping hand. He was quick to notice a need and even quicker to meet it. One of his greatest joys was serving as a stand-in father at community Father-Daughter dances. By night's end, he'd have several young "dates," and those memories lit up his heart. Whether by blood or by bond, James took on the role of a father figure to many. His love for people was magnetic.

James extended his service beyond the church and home. He volunteered as a Voting Poll Worker and served faithfully with the ARC of North Talladega County. His service earned him several awards, including the ARC Board Member of the Year. What began as a simple invitation to help with Sunshine Saturday grew into ongoing involvement with programs like the Callie's Kid Gala and more.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James Sr. and Eliza Kidd-Stockdale, and sisters, Mildred Swain and Joyce Dorman.

James leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 45 years, Cherrie Twyman-Stockdale; his loving daughter and pride of his life, Candi S. Cole; and the joys of his heart-his granddaughters Brooklyn, Londyn, and Phoenix Cole, whom he proudly adored. Also mourning his loss are his sisters Brenda Stockdale and Pat (Willie) Curry; brothers Mitchell Stockdale, Maurice Stockdale, and George (Phyllis) Williams; his bonus sister Jackie Hall; sister-in-law Fannie Turner; brother-in-law James Wallace; beloved aunts Marian Parrish, Ida McKenzie, Johnnie Estell, and Maddie Estell; uncle John Kidd; dear friends Billy (Phyllis) Curry and Charlie (Mary Nell) Tucker; and host of nieces and nephews and his beloved Mt. Pilgrim Church Family.

James "Bubba" Stockdale was the embodiment of selfless love and quiet strength. His legacy of faith, service, and generosity will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched. No one can ever fill his shoes, for he walked in love, lifted others with grace, and left a lasting imprint on this world. He was a father to many and a blessing to all.

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Visitation

Jul
26

Terry's Metropolitan Mortuary

1702 West Battle St.

Talladega, Alabama 35160

1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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Funeral Service

Jul
27

Kelly Springs Baptist Church

351 Curry Station Rd

Munford, Alabama 36268

2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
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Interment

Jul
27

Lane Chapel Cemetery

Berney Station Rd

Talladega, Alabama 35160

4:00 PM
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