December 22, 2025, 5, Goldsboro – Johnny Preston Stanley, 75, of Goldsboro passed away at his home on Monday, December 22, 2025. Johnny was born in Johnston County on September 3, 1950 to the late Refus Ray Stanley and Mary Alma Brock Stanley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Johnny Preston Stanley, Jr. and sister, Sue Evans.
Johnny Preston Stanley was born on September 3, 1950, in Johnston County, where he was raised alongside three brothers and six sisters in a farming family that instilled in him a strong work ethic and deep family values. He was a graduate of Princeton High School, Class of 1968, and went on to build a life rooted in faith, family, and dedication. Johnny was married for 57 years to the love of his life, Susan, and together they were blessed with three children—Johnny Jr., Adam, and their cherished “spoiled little girl,” Jennifer, lovingly known as Pooh. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Lauren Ashley, Brandon Ryan, Ryleigh Victoria, Cameron Lee, and Carter Ray. A faithful member of Tee’s Chapel Church, Johnny worked for many years in construction as a drywall hanger and finisher before later working side by side with Susan selling insurance until their retirement in 2017. He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—spending time at Lake Gaston riding the pontoon boat with Carolyn and Ricky, surf fishing, and cooking on the grill for Sunday lunches surrounded by those he loved most.
The Funeral Service will be on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Tee’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, 6434 Brogden Road, Smithfield, NC 27577 with Pastor Dennis Pollock officiating. Committal will follow the service in Princeton Cemetery, 225 Dr. Donnie H. Jones, Jr. Blvd., Princeton, NC 27569. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Tee’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Susan Jane Worley Stanley; son, Adam Ray Stanley (Jennifer Wise); daughter, Jennifer Stanley Ward (Chad); grandchildren, Lauren Stanley, Brandon Ward, Ryleigh Ward, Cameron Stanley, and Carter Stanley; brothers and sisters, Faye Ellis, Grace Tart, Ronald Stanley (Bobbie), Donald Stanley (Margie), Tony Stanley (Cathy), Pat S. Deese (Junior), Angie S. Shelly, and Lisa Stanley.
Although flowers are welcomed, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Tee’s Chapel FWB Church or your local fire department.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at caseyfh.com.
Casey Funeral Home & Cremations is honored to serve the Stanley Family.
