Jake Ashby Stockard

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved son, Jake Ashby Stockard, of Leland who passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025.

Born July 27, 1991 in his hometown of Greensboro NC. He is survived by his mother, Yvonne Willard, and stepfather, Mike Willard; father Alan Stockard and stepmother, Jackie Stockard; sister, Rebecca Griffin, and nephew Sean Griffin; sister, Jessica Penley, and brother- in-law, Jordan Penley, and nephew Everett Penley; great aunt, Sandra Dean, and great uncle, Gene Dean; bonus siblings, Joshua Willard, Grace Hollifield and Katie Bennett; and many aunts and uncles and cousins that he grew up with that were a big part of his life.

Jake was preceded in death by his grandparents, Rebecca Hawks and Aldeen Hawks, Pat Stockard and Donald Stockard.

Jake was a graduate of Northwest High School.  He was an observer, taking in life and not commenting or judging it. He accepted people as they were not expecting anything from them. He had a smile for everyone and a quiet sense of humor. He enjoyed fishing, taking pictures and riding his bike.

Like a sunflower, Jake grew tall and strong, even in adverse conditions.  Sunflowers symbolize enlightenment, spiritual awakening, and personal growth, and Jake embodied these qualities throughout his adult life.  Despite many stumbles, he consistently rose and persevered until he achieved victory.

When he moved to Leland he found his home. He secured a job he loved at Mands Electric in Leland. His apartment was just a mile or so from there with all the comforts of home a young man could ask for. He wanted to be the "best Uncle in the world to his nephews". He loved fishing from the pier. Being near the water gave him great inner peace. He loved his family and had hoped to have one of his own one day. Now he is with his heavenly family, and we will all be together again one day.

The funeral will be held at 11 am on Monday September 22, 2025 at George Brothers Funeral Service. The family will receive friends following the service until 12:30 pm. Those who wish to attend the committal service, may meet at Lakeview Memorial Park at 1 pm.  There, Jake will be laid to rest beside his grandma Becky and his great grandparents, Ed and Lala Overly. 

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