Jeri Stone

Jeri Stone passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 26, 2024, at the age of 70 in West Lake Hills, Texas. True to her determined personality, she died on her own terms, surrounded by loving family at her home after a recent cancer diagnosis.

Jeri was born in Dallas, Texas to Harold Stone and Jean Stone on August 10, 1954. She attended Southern Methodist University for her undergraduate degree and went on to obtain her J.D. from The University of Texas School of Law in 1977 at the age of 22. Jeri started working for Texas Classroom Teachers Association (TCTA) in 1978, where she quickly distinguished herself as a brilliant writer, attorney, and lobbyist, and became Executive Director in 1985. Through over four decades working at TCTA, Jeri worked tirelessly to improve working conditions for public school teachers across the state of Texas. During her career, she met with countless legislators and several different Texas governors and education commissioners to advocate for public education, displaying the utmost professionalism and passion. Her dedication to her work led to many coworkers becoming close friends and family. She was an alumna of the Texas Lyceum and was recognized for her leadership as a member of Leadership Texas and Leadership America.

Jeri met the love of her life, Lonnie Floyd Hollingsworth Jr., at TCTA. The two were married in 1990 and had three children. Among her many accomplishments, Jeri was a wonderful and adoring wife and mother. Jeri always offered comfort to her family members any time they needed it, attended every recital and sports game, and supported every interest, passion, and career goals her children had. She loved spending time with her husband, and enjoyed travelling with him, especially to the Caribbean Island Anguilla, where they spent their honeymoon and returned many times. Jeri had unconditional love and boundless hugs and kisses for her beloved husband and children.

Jeri's charisma, wit, and grace enabled her to make friends with anyone. Her family and friends were regularly surprised and delighted by her easy confidence and kindness. Her bold presence has led to her being described as "a force of nature." Jeri had endless compassion and plenty of sass for everyone she met. Jeri enjoyed her life to the fullest, appreciating everything from fine dining and jewelry to the birds and lizards in her backyard. She always had perfect nails, good wine, and beautiful clothes. She was an insatiable reader, and loved spending time with her family, playing video games, and snuggling her dog.

Jeri is survived by her husband Lonnie Floyd Hollingsworth, Jr., her son Lonnie Floyd Hollingsworth III, her son Dr. Allen Stone Hollingsworth and his wife Kaitlin Hollingsworth, and her daughter Barrett Jean Hollingsworth.

Those who knew Jeri will desperately miss the boundless warmth and fun she brought to this world. We love you.

Jeri's Memorial Celebration and Reception will be held on January 26, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Four Seasons Hotel Austin. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Partnerships for Children, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, or St. David's Episcopal Church would be a wonderful way to remember her.