Dr. Joseph Derek Stone

Dr. Joseph Derek Stone obituary, Covington, GA

Dr. Joseph Derek Stone

Joseph Stone Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home and Cremation Chapel - Covington on Aug. 22, 2024.

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This obituary was lovingly prepared by the family.
Beloved spouse, son, brother, uncle, and friend to many, Dr. Joseph Derek Stone, age 53, of Madison, Georgia, passed away on August 21, 2024.
Derek was born September 18, 1970 to Linda Wilson Stone and the late Aaron Joseph Stone in Valdosta, Georgia. He completed his undergraduate education at Valdosta State College in Valdosta, Georgia, and he earned his doctorate in cell biology and anatomy at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia, where he met his husband of 29 years, Dr. Clint Buchanan. Throughout his distinguished academic career, Derek held multiple appointments, including posts as Professor and Biology Department Chair at Paine College, Augusta, Georgia; Associate Chief Academic Officer at Georgia Military College, Milledgeville, Georgia; and as Associate Provost for Academic Programs at Georgia Gwinnett College, Lawrenceville, Georgia.
No matter where he worked, however, Derek's steadfast and primary motivation was providing students (including those often marginalized and disadvantaged, as well as non-traditional students) the opportunities and resources they needed to achieve their academic goals. He worked tirelessly through teaching, grant writing, mentoring, and overseeing academic programs and accreditation efforts to help students succeed. His colleagues repeatedly testify that he embodied the absolute finest qualities of an educator who truly advocates for students. Dr. Stone will be remembered by so many for his sincere appreciation of others and his quick-witted intelligence; as one of his colleagues has said, "he could just fill a room with his warm and genuine personality."
Derek is preceded in death by his grandparents, Reba and Torrence Wilson (Bompy and Grangran). Derek is survived by his spouse, Dr. Clint D. Buchanan; mother, Linda Wilson Stone; brother and sister-in-law, Stuart and Shelley Stone; nephew, Andrew Wilson Stone. And of course, his much loved (albeit overfed) cat, Hogan. Derek enjoyed travel and was a life-long learner. He appreciated the opportunity to immerse himself in different cultures and new experiences.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00AM on Friday August 30th at New Covington Cemetery with Pastor Doug Gilreath officiating. Parking for the cemetery may be found four blocks south of the downtown square along Church Street near the intersection of Southview Drive. J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home, 2157 East Street, S.E., Covington, Georgia is serving the family.
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August 27, 2024

Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones posted to the memorial.

August 27, 2024

GGC School of Health Sciences planted trees.

August 27, 2024

D. Reuben Kesler,Jr. posted to the memorial.

Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones

August 27, 2024

On behalf of the Paine College family, I extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of Dr. J. Derek Stone. Dr. Stone was a dedicated professor and an outstanding colleague. It was a pleasure to work with him during his tenure at Paine College. May peace and comfort be with you now and in the days ahead.

Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones, President

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GGC School of Health Sciences

Planted Trees

D. Reuben Kesler,Jr.

August 27, 2024

I extend my condolences to the family and friends during this time of bereavement. May you find strength in knowing that Dr. Stone was an outstanding teacher, colleague and administrator who touched so many lives. He will be remembered and missed.

Dr. Gabriel Swenson

August 26, 2024

Dr. Stone was an enthusiastic educator who genuinely enjoyed teaching and learning with others. He had the unique ability to empathize with students and faculty, without lowering the standard of excellence. He was a advocate, and a joy to work with. He will be missed.

Dana Jackson

August 23, 2024

As an alumna of Paine College, Dr. Stone was my favorite and most influential professor. He had a special way of building your confidence, making the subject matter interesting and getting one back on track if needed. I will never forget the impact he had on my life. He will be sorely missed.

Dr. Matthew Maestas

August 22, 2024

Dr. Stone was a great coworker, friend and helped me considerably at GMC. My prayers and condolences to his family.

Dr. Matt Maestas

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Dr. Anita Anderson

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Sign Joseph Stone's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 27, 2024

Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones posted to the memorial.

August 27, 2024

GGC School of Health Sciences planted trees.

August 27, 2024

D. Reuben Kesler,Jr. posted to the memorial.