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Stacey Yopp Obituary
Valrico - CAPTAIN Stacey William Yopp, USN (Ret.) of Valrico, FL, died on Monday,17 May 2021 at home. Stacey was 49. He was born on 29 January 1972 in Leesburg, FL. He graduated from Lake Weir High School in 1990, The United States Naval Academy in 1994 receiving a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Naval Postgraduate School in 2001 receiving a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics , and Air Command and Staff College, Air University in 2006 receiving a Master of Military Operational Art and Science. In 1997 he married Cecelia Jones, and together they had 3 children, William Brandon (who preceded him in death), M. Catherine and Chaney Jaiyel. Stacey completed his Division Officer tours aboard USS OLENDORF (DD 972) in San Diego, CA where he was the Fire Control Officer, Auxiliaries Officer and the ship's Maintenance and Material Officer; and aboard USS YORKTOWN (CG 48) in Pascagoula, MS where he was the Navigator and CIC Officer. His Department Head tours were aboard USS JOHN S MCCAIN (DDG 56) in Yokosuka, Japan, and USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN (CG 57) in San Diego, CA where he was the Engineer Officer on both ships. He served as Executive Officer aboard USS CURTS (FFG 38) in San Diego, CA, and USS ROSS (DDG 71) in Norfolk, VA. He also served as the Commanding Officer of the USS ROSS (DDG 71). Ashore, he was assigned to the staff of the Commander, US THIRD Fleet assigned to the N5 Directorate (San Diego, CA); Commander, US FIFTH Fleet (Kingdom of Bahrain) as the Current Operations Director; Director of Current Operations, US SIXTH Fleet (Naples, Italy); and Director, Strike Group Training, Undersea Warfighting Development Center (San Diego, CA). His professional awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (two awards), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (one award), Navy Achievement Medal (two awards), and various unit citations and campaign awards. Stacey and that infectious laugh will be greatly missed. Stacey is survived by his wife and daughters, his mother, Lila, his siblings Annie, Barbara, Alexander, Janet (Felix), Gregory (Donna), Lorraine and a grand host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Lamar and his sister, Lillie. A memorial service will be held at 1100 at the Village View Community Church, 8585 S.E. 147TH PLACE, SUMMERFIELD, FL 34491 on 29 May, 2021. FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS.
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Memories and Condolences
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Cynthia Lamar
May 26, 2025
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
jordan
April 6, 2024
To the family, I had the privilege of serving under/with Mr Yopp on FFG 38. Great man!!! Spent alot of time with him on the bridge and can't count how many times he had me cracking up. Great leader and even greater man.
David
December 11, 2021
I was extremely saddened to hear of the loss of Stacey. I'm reaching out because he gave me a P-coat that no longer fit him. I would be more than happy to return it to any family that might cherish it.
Chuck Sharkey, CAPT, USNR (Ret)
August 28, 2021
I have very fond memories of working with Stacey at C3F. A few years later, Stacey gave me my warmest welcome, on my first day at C5F. He will never know how much that welcome meant to me. Upon seeing his picture in Shipmate, my heart broke. I was just thinking about him last week and wondering if he was still on active duty. Stacey was a great man, shipmate, and Naval Officer. Rest in peace, my friend.
LCDR William "BOB" Alcocer Jr. USN (Ret)
August 18, 2021
To Stacey's Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies as I discovered this morning that Captain Stacey Yopp passed away a few months ago. I had the great pleasure of serving with him at COMUSNAVCENT/COMFIFTHFLT where he served as the Current Operations Officer and I worked in the Force Protection Directorate. Working longer hours and building constantly changing deliverables, then-Commander Yopp kept us in good spirits and kept us laughing to keep the team sane. You will be missed Captain Yopp, forever the big brother at NAVCENT in 2010, forever our brother in arms. Thanks for the laughs when we needed it. -BOB
Althea Gibson
June 6, 2021
I never met him but I enjoyed the love, friendship, admiration, joy and happiness that it brought to Cece and the girls. My heart is heavy & broken right now for Cece, Catherine and Chaney plus Lila. Always praying for you.
Ernest Robinson
May 31, 2021
My deepest condolences to Cecelia, Catherine, Chaney and all of Stacey's family. Stacey was my friend, classmate and roommate at the Naval Academy. I am actually still speechless and without words as I think about how much regret I have in not being able to give him one more big hug (or vice versa.). I am praying that his family and the rest of his loved ones can take comfort knowing how much he was and will always be truly loved and appreciated.
Probably my fondest thought or memory of Stacey is sort of proprietary. What I mean is, whenever I run into someone who truly knew the big fella, almost in unison, while reminiscing over some extraordinary memory, we almost always say in unison--"that's MY Stacey!" Case in point--after I brought Stacey home on leave when we were at the academy, every time I'd phone my parents to let them know I'd be home on leave on such-and-such date, they would without fail, ask the follow up question in hopeful tonality, "Is Stacey coming too?"
I know he's in a wonderful place with the Eternal Father to whom he actually belongs, but like LG said, I would trade anything for a chance to tell him how much he and his family are loved, blessed and appreciated.
I miss you big brother and am so grateful you and the rest of my family came into my life 31 years ago.
With love,
Ernie
Frank DiGeronimo
May 30, 2021
I knew Stacey and his Laugh was infectious. He will be Greatly missed. God Bless and my condolences to his Family.
OSCS(SW/AW) Dennis J Ward
May 30, 2021
Captain Yopp was the Current Operations Director at COMUSNAVCENT, and I served as his Command Senior Chief. He was one of the greatest Naval Officers I’ve ever had the pleasure to serve with. His only direction to me when he arrived in BAHRAIN was, “Run your TLAM Watch Team so I don’t have to”! It was an honor to have served with you, and you’ll be missed by us all! Fair Winds and Following Seas Sir!!
Russ Guinn
May 29, 2021
I knew Stacey from the 4th grade at Stanton Weirsdale until the time we graduated together from Lake Weir. One of the most intelligent, fun loving people I have ever had the opportunity of knowing. He was truly gifted in many ways - athletics, music and scholastics. I am honored to have known Stacey. You were always a great friend. Until we meet again.
Sjahari Pullom
May 29, 2021
I knew CAPT Stacey Yopp when we were midshipmen at the Naval Academy together. He was a classmate, friend, and fellow member of the Gospel Choir. What I remember most about him was his joyful and indomitable spirit, and his quiet strength (of both the physical and inner kind). I suspect that a lot of people will be reaching out to you - his qualities made him well-loved and admired, and he will be missed.
Verlisa Frazier
May 28, 2021
To Mrs. Cecelia Yopp and Family,
I was saddened to hear of the recent loss of your Husband my heart goes out to you and your family during this time please accept my deepest condolences. I ask the Lord to Come and presence himself with the Yopp family. Comfort them in their loss, hold them in their sorrow and sustain them through their grief. Enfold them all with your love. You in are my thoughts and prayers.
Verlisa Frazier
CAPT Chip Swicker, USN (Ret.)
May 28, 2021
CAPT Stacey Yopp was my Chief Engineer when I commanded the guided missile destroyer USS JOHN S. McCAIN (DDG 56) in the Arabian Gulf and the Western Pacific in 2002. His positive leadership and superb professionalism kept our ship always ready to sail fast and shoot straight! He served his country with honor, courage and commitment, and he treated his Sailors with compassion, high standards, and great coaching. I am proud to have called him my shipmate!
Derrick Smith
May 28, 2021
I remember Stacey from our days at the Academy and our time together in the Gospel choir - always smiling, always bursting with energy and positivity. A bright light gone too soon. Condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. God Bless you and keep you all.
Dean Wakeham
May 28, 2021
Stacey was big in stature and big in heart. A great teammate, who I didn't see too often, after his graduation, but whenever I did, it was like no time had passed and he was always interested in me and my life. I appreciated that about him, and losing someone so young is always hard. I pray for his family in their time of loss, that they are comforted and pray that they are reunited one day.
Undray Greorgy Glover
May 27, 2021
Captain Stacey Yopp was my baby brother. Even though he was much taller than me. So I grew up looking up to him. He was not only my brother but my hero also. He was like the ship in commanded unsinkable. Solid as a rock. My brother you will be missed very much. Our weekend laughs and talk of food will be missed. I Love you brother until we meet again keep the wind in your sails, and you will be the wind beneath my wings one day. So with tear stained face. Brother nothing but Love for you. I salute you Captain Stacey Yopp
Jeff Triplett
May 27, 2021
We send our deepest condolences to Stacey's family. You are in our prayers.
Marcus Starks
May 27, 2021
Stacey was a like a big brother to me as a young Midshipman and fellow football player at the Academy. His leadership was an excellent example and will never be forgotten. My God bless and keep the family.
Rob Walker
May 27, 2021
Stacey was an amazing man, leader, and shipmate. I had the pleasure and honor of serving with him in Bahrain and again in Naples, Italy. An infectious smile, a big laugh, and the kindest of hearts. He will be sorely missed by all. My prayers and deepest condolences to his family.
Fair winds and following seas, Stacey.
Earl Filmore
May 27, 2021
Stacey,
Is like a big brother to me and will not be forgotten. If not for you big brother, it wouldn't be a Major Filmore. Not saying goodbye but see you later when we meet in glory. You will be be forgotten and your legacy will live on because we will talk about all the great times we had with you.
Meger Chappell
May 26, 2021
I’m saddened by the Good Captain’s passing. A phenomenal man and leader! I worked with Captain Yopp’s team on several occasions when he was CO in ROSS. As a young officer, CAPT Yopp inspired me and many others. May God rest his soul and Bless his Family!
Wanda Glover
May 26, 2021
Stacey I will Truly miss you I love and Honor the person you became.
We spent many weekends together and I enjoyed every minute of it
Rest In Peace my brother Until we meet again ❤❤❤❤
Scott Hornbuckle
May 26, 2021
My deepest condolences. The Yoppster will always be a part of the heart and soul of USNA class of '94. A lovely person through and through. Stacey, I know your presence on earth will be missed. I also know that you are on the other side still taking care of your family and friends, holding them up with those strong arms/wings of yours. Rest easy.
Todd Lyman
May 26, 2021
Stacey, was larger than life in both size and personality, he had an infectious laugh. Stacey was a great friend who will be sorely missed.
My condolences to Stacey’s family, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Greg Muir
May 26, 2021
Stacey was a fine sailor, a man's man...he had it all. Character, integrity, smarts, good to people. I really enjoyed being around him, and will miss him. have attached a photo I took of USS ROSS from a helicopter when Stacey was in command. RIP my friend. I
Rebecca A Jacobs
May 25, 2021
My condolences to Stacey's family and friends. I went to high school with Stacey. He was the most awesome person. Kind and respectful to everyone, intelligent, and talented. I remember his laugh the most. So sad to hear of Stacey's passing. God speed Stacey.
Dan Bilow
May 25, 2021
My condolences to all of Stacey's friends and family. I served and deployed with Stacey aboard USS Oldendorf from 1995-1997 and I was deeply saddened when I heard the news the other day. I've posted a photo from better times when several of the officers went canoeing on the Russian River during a port visit to San Francisco around 1995.
Charlotte Walker
May 25, 2021
With Deepest Heartfelt Condolences on the loss of your Husband and Father. Stacey filled our lives with Happiness and Love that we as a family will carry in our hearts forever. Cecelia "CeCe", William (Angel in Heaven), M. Catherine and Chaney whenever you feel said, remember your hearts are connected together. May the Hope of Heaven bring you peace. Warm Thoughts and Prayers. Love Always, Auntie Charlotte, Uncle Pete and Cousins Sheree, Matthew and Peter.
Peter Stitt
May 24, 2021
Salute! Praying for your family and all who loved you Captain!
Jerry Dawson
May 24, 2021
My sincere condolences to Stacey's family and friends. May you always cherish the good times and all that made Stacey great.
jason Van Matre
May 24, 2021
I will always remember Stacey's big laugh and smile. He always found a way to bring levity to any situation. It's no surprise the impact he made on so many people.
My heart breaks for Cecelia, Catherine and Chaney. You are in everyone's prayers during this difficult time.
Jody McCullough
May 24, 2021
My deepest condolences to the family. I was a year behind Stacey at USNA and saw him again at the Naval Postgraduate School. I will treasure the memories of his sense of humor and ability to keep things light during the trials of football and military service. We were all touched by his presence and are better because of it.
Daryl Wise
May 23, 2021
I was so heartbroken to hear the news about Stacey’s passing. My deepest sympathies to the Yopp family. My brother went to the Naval Academy with Stacey and he was always one of my favorites of his classmates. He was such a fun, entertaining person to be around. I truly enjoyed his company. He will be sorely missed!
Carrie Dean Wright
May 23, 2021
I grew up with Stacey in school and will always remember his large presence both literally and figuratively. He could always make me laugh, while running laps in PE, of all places. Prayers to has family and my deepest condolences.
Walter Coley
May 23, 2021
I sang in the U.S. Naval Academy Gospel Choir with Stacey, my fellow tenor. I will never forget that big smile or sense of humor. After learning of his untimely passing, my brain flashed back to the fun we had together. We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. - 2 Cor. 5:8 Rest easy, sir!
JAMES G HENSLEY
May 23, 2021
Stacey will definitely be missed. We played football together at Lake Weir. We had a lot of laughs back in the high school days. He was always a great guy. RIP Stacey
Sherry Evans
May 23, 2021
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Stacey was a wonderful friend to us. We will miss him dearly. We have so many memories here in San Diego CA of our children and many fun times. One time of laughter was my oldest daughter at her wedding. It wouldn't have been as much fun without you guys. We love you and we are here for you.
Spencer and Sherry Evans
Friend/family
May 23, 2021
My deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family. May you have peace and serenity each and everyday to comfort you. Sending you love and a warm embrace.
Love,
Telva & Louis Hickman (Mackey)
Sherry Evans
May 23, 2021
Stacey, was like family to us. We are Sherry and Lt. Spencer Evans ret. We had come really good times together. San Diego is where it all began for us. Our children grew together. Our oldest could not have imagined her wedding without you guys there. We are blessed to have had our lives cross paths. We know that you are with William holding him. Spencer is at a lost because you are not here. May God comfort your girls and CeCe.
Sherry Evans
May 23, 2021
Motisola Bowman
May 23, 2021
Please accept my deepest condolences. Stacey was one of the kindest, funniest people I have ever known. He lifted me up when I was struggling as a midshipman in 16th company. He was truly a great guy. God bless,
Motisola Bowman
Marcus Beslin
May 23, 2021
I send my prayers and condolences to the family during this time and know that Stacey will be missed by all that he touched. I first met Stacey or what I called him “Yoppster”, when I joined the Naval Academy Gospel Choir my Sophomore year. He was a junior and throughout our many practices, performances, and trips, I came to see him as a kind, sincere, and genuine mentor and leader. Stacey would control the room with his presence, voice and of course laugh. We briefly met up in Bahrain about ten years ago and I can tell you he was the same great man I knew many years before. As we used to sing together, ”May His peace be with you, till we meet again.”
Tara McCray Banks
May 23, 2021
My deepest condolences to the family. May the Lord cover you during this difficult time
Tara McCray Banks
Prnita Gavin Smith
May 22, 2021
Stacey was such a nice young man with a big smile. My deepest sympathy. Sending love and prayers to the family.
Lewis Sims
May 22, 2021
In 1997, Stacey was stationed in Pascagoula waiting on his ship. He came out and helped work with my team while I was coaching junior high football. Later that same year, he was passing through Moss Point and called my parents. They invited him to dinner and my dad still talks about the fun conversations had over that meal. Godspeed, Yopper. Prayers from Pascagoula for your family..
Lewis "Bubba" Sims
Lionel Hines
May 22, 2021
My deepest condolences and prayers to the family of one of God’s finest!
I’ve known “Yopp Squatch” since 1990. He’s my football brother, fellow Gospel Choir tenor, and USNA company-mate (which means we spent a lot of time together on the Severn).
Stacey has always exhibited a servant leader mentality and informal leadership. He would never ask someone to do what he wasn’t willing to do himself. His laugh was indeed infectious and his genuine, extremely limited filter made every conversation entertaining, at a minimum.
I’ll never forget, twenty plus years ago, pulling into Hong Kong and overhearing some senior officers bragging about this absolutely awesome SWO junior officer, who played football at Annapolis. I soon found out this CruDes JO was none other than my brother, Stacey! I was filled with so much pride. We figured out how to get some time together, while in the Orient, and we’ve remained close for thirty years.
The amount of love and outpouring witnessed since notification of his untimely death is truly wonderful however I would trade it all for one more day with the big guy.
Stacey, you are loved forever....farewell and following seas.
-Lionel
Donna Glover
May 22, 2021
He was my Rock, with him around you knew you were in good hands. I will miss his laughter so much. And his bear like hugs. Strong and sturdy Fly high Angel. Love you
Keith Galloway
May 22, 2021
Stacey had an infectious laugh and smile. He lit up the room and if there was ever thunderous laughter in the room he was usually the cause. He will be missed.
Sonja Lamar
May 22, 2021
You will truly be missed. My prayers are with your family. Thank you for all of your dedicated service to our country. Love your Cousin Sonja
Patricia Jones
May 22, 2021
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26 Love you.
Deric Sims
May 22, 2021
Fair Winds and Following Seas Stacey. You are a great man and father. True Brother forever.
Deric Sims
May 22, 2021
Very Winds and Following Seas Stacey. A great man and father. True Brother forever.
Crystal Burke (Jolly)
May 22, 2021
Sending love and prayers to Cece and family.. Hugs ..
Cynthia Lamar
May 22, 2021
To the family, I know you’re already missing Stacey. May Fod strengthen you all and give you peace. In the matchless name of Jesus.
Thank you Stacey for your Meritouris service and may you R. I. P.!!! I love you family. Let us all be prepared to meet our Savior when He calls.❤
Ann McAllister
May 22, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Darryl Wilson
May 22, 2021
I am one of Stacey’s classmates from USNA. After graduation, our paths crossed in Monterey, CA. While at the academy, Stacey’s football locker was next to mine. Stacey always had a big smile and big heart. I am just glad I had the opportunity to know him. He made all of us better. My condolences ~ Darryl “DL” Wilson, 94’
Charles Hendon
May 22, 2021
You made Weirsdale proud my neighbor. Praying for peace and comfort for the family. CeCe you are heavy on my heart my friend ❤. RIP Stacey. (Hometown Neighbor, Charles Hendon)
Amy Watkins
May 22, 2021
My Love, Condolences, and Prayers to the family.
Amy(CG) & Family
Tiffany Brown STL, MO
May 22, 2021
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Joann Matthews
May 22, 2021
Condolences from Milton and Joann Matthews.
Pamela Snead
May 22, 2021
It was with a heavy heart that I learned of Stacey's passing. God is to wise to make a mistake to just to be unkind. God please give the family your peace and understanding. We love you all . Be blessed family.
Cecilia jacobs
May 22, 2021
I love you Stacy will never forget you may you Rest In Peace
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