Larry "Stoney" Sid Stoneking

Larry Sid Stoneking, affectionately known as "Stoney", of Gassville, Arkansas, passed away April 19, 2025, at his home, at the age of 79. He was born April 11, 1946, in Wheatland, Wyoming, the son of Sylva "Sid" Thurman and Geraldine Blair Stoneking. Larry graduated from high school in Sunnyside, Washington, in 1965, and soon after began his honorable service in the U.S. Army. A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, he was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for his bravery. One of the highlights of each year for him, was reuniting with his brothers-in-arms from the 595th Engineer Company. At just 14 years old, Larry met the love of his life, Retha Goatley, and knew that he would marry her someday. The two were united in marriage on May 31, 1969. In 1970, the couple visited Gassville, Arkansas, for what was meant to be a weekend trip. They never left, making it their lifelong home. Larry began his career with Union Pacific Railroad (formerly Missouri Pacific Railroad) in 1973. He worked as a brakeman conductor and dedicated 20 years of service before his retirement in 1993. Larry spent countless hours hunting and fishing. He had a deep love for his dogs, who were constant companions over the years. Larry’s greatest pride and joy was being a grandpa to his beloved Sydnee.

"We love him, because he first loved us." 1 John 4:19 (KJV)

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Retha Stoneking of Gassville, AR; daughters, Lori Ligon of Kansas City, MO, and Leslie (Brad) Knight of Maumelle, AR; granddaughter, Sydnee Knight of Maumelle, AR; brother, William (Ilene) Stoneking of Spokane, WA; twin brother, Jerry (Betty) Stoneking of Littlefield, Arizona; sister, Doris (Linn) Walker of Sunnyside, WA; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Chuck, Toby Dick, and Ricky Stoneking; and son-in-law, Roger Ligon.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 26, 2025, 1:00 pm, at Kirby & Family Funeral Home Chapel. A Funeral Service for Larry will be 2:00 pm, Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Kirby & Family Funeral Home Chapel, with Mr. James Stone officiating. Burial will be in the Gassville Cemetery, Gassville, AR, with Pastor Harvey Seehusen officiating. Pallbearers will be Brad Knight, Wayne Rutledge, Leon Opitz, David DeVore, Skyler Evans, and Vernon Ray Jones. Honorary pallbearers will be Clifford Cunningham, Rick Cunningham, Doug Goatley, David Cherry, Donnie Perry, and the 595th Engineer Company. Military Honors will be provided by the U.S. Army and Alley-White American Legion Post #52 honor guards.

Memorials may be made to Alley-White American Legion Post #52.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.