John Edward Stanley, Jr. , age 79, of Fredericksburg VA, was born on September 4, 1945, to the late John Edward Stanley Sr. and Christine Stanley. He received his education at John J Wright Consolidated School. Henry (as he was affectionately known) was one of the most selfless people you would ever meet.

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, John Edward Stanley departed this life for his heavenly home. He gave his life to Jesus Christ early in life. He was a dedicated Trustee of First New Hope Baptist Church.

At an early age he worked for FMC Plant, Robert Supply and the late Judge Waller. He also enjoyed doing landscaping for others. He was a dedicated employee of Southland Distribution Center which later became McLane Mid Atlantic for 30 years.

His favorite pass time was calling his best friends and family making jokes, laughing, riding out with his late brother-in-law Leroy Henderson. Henry had a beautiful voice and loved to sing church hymns and enjoyed listening to gospel singer Lee Williams. He also was a die-hard Commanders Fan.

Henry was preceded in death by his life partner, Emma L. Harris, his father John Edward Standley and Sisters Maybelle Mobley and Mary Shelton. He leaves to cherish his memories, his mother, Christine Standley; son, Sidney Harris; daughter, Bennie Johnson (Bernard); brothers Otis Buckner (Teresa) of Columbus, OH, George Standley of Spotsylvania, VA and Walter Standley (Arlean) of Locust Grove, VA; sisters, Ruby Jackson, Nellie Henderson, Thelma Camp (Earl), Eyvonne Kerns and Queen Hardy (Michael) all of Spotsylvania, VA; two grandsons, Temony McNeil (Tiffany) of Woodbridge, VA, Cortez McNeil (Nina) of Baltimore, MD; six great-grandchildren; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and his dog Lucy.

A viewing will be held at A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and one hour before the funeral service. A funeral service will be held at A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 12:00 PM. The interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens following the service.