Raymond Stonell, who was known simply as Raymond and lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and hard work, passed away on June 14, 2026, at Patewood Post Acute. He was born on September 9, 1939, in Greer, South Carolina, and he spent his years building a legacy of love, service, and steadfast Christian witness.

Raymond was the beloved husband of Evelyn Stonell, and their 65 years of marriage were a beautiful example of commitment, partnership, and enduring love. He cherished his wife deeply and treasured the life they built together. He was also a devoted father to Randy Stonell and his wife Vickie, Vickie Chew, and Jimmy Stonell and his wife Lynn. Raymond found great joy in his family and took special pride in his nine grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought light and happiness to his life. He is also survived by his brother Pete Stonell and his wife Lavonda, his brother Melvin Stonell and his wife Margaret, his sister Nancy Turner and her husband Bill, his sister Allie Calbert and her husband Ronnie, and several nieces and nephews who will remember him with love. He was preceded in death by his father, Rev. John W. Stonell, his mother, Ida Jordan Stonell, his brothers Harold Stonell and Wesley Stonell, and his sisters Faye McAlister, Betty Pankey, and Nettie Hazel.

Raymond’s life was one of perseverance and determination. In his younger years, he worked on the farm to help provide for his family, learning the value of labor, responsibility, and sacrifice at an early age. He later entered the textile industry, where he mastered the work of operating looms. His strong work ethic and willingness to learn carried him forward, and he eventually attended HVAC school before becoming a manager over several complexes in the Greenville area. Through every season of life, he approached his work with diligence and integrity.

Although Raymond was accomplished in his career, his greatest calling was serving the Lord. He taught himself to read and write by studying the Bible, a testimony to his hunger for God’s Word and his desire to grow in faith. He later attended Bible school and went on to serve as a pastor for 30 years, following in the footsteps of his father and ministering in different churches throughout the state. His ministry was not simply a role he held, but the passion of his life. He loved the church, loved the Lord, and devoted himself to sharing the gospel with others.

Raymond was a Christian man whose life reflected the qualities of a spirited, selfless, and faith-filled servant. He loved being outdoors, reading the Bible on the front porch, and spending time with his grandchildren. He looked forward each September to the convention in Tennessee, a time that brought him encouragement and joy. More than anything, he loved his family, his church, and the Lord he served so faithfully.

Those who knew Raymond will remember his strong spirit, his gentle heart, and his unwavering devotion to God and family. His life was a blessing to many, and his influence will continue through the generations who follow. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.