Obituaries

Tommy Ray Stone, born Tommy Ray Huff Jr., entered the world on March 29, 1959, in Kaufman, Texas, to Tommy and Patty Huff. He spent his childhood in Sherman, Texas, where he was raised by his mother, Katheryn Ballard, alongside his sisters, Trisha and Wanda.

From the time he was a young boy, Tommy found his greatest peace near the water. Fishing wasn’t just a hobby for him; it was part of his identity. Whether he was standing on the banks of Lake Dallas with his grandmothers or walking to a nearby creek with a pole in hand, Tommy felt at home wherever a line could be cast. His love for fishing stayed with him throughout his life, and he carried it with pride, humor, and a wink. When asked if he was a fisherman, he’d grin and say, “Pour me a glass of water and I’ll catch you a fish.” That was Tommy—quick with a joke, eager to share a laugh, and always ready with a story.

He was also a natural athlete, a gifted softball player, and someone who simply loved being outdoors. But beyond his talents, Tommy had a gift for people. He loved to talk, to connect, to make friends wherever he went. His career in sales came naturally to him, and later, he found joy working alongside his partner—she designing interiors, and Tommy designing the landscapes that brought those spaces to life.

Tommy’s life was rich with love—love for God, love for his family, love for the outdoors, and love for the simple joys that made each day meaningful. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and connection. He leaves behind memories that will be told and retold, each one carrying his voice, his humor, and his heart

When Tommy’s heart health began to limit his ability to work and enjoy the activities he loved, he returned to Sherman to be close to his sisters. Even then, he never stopped talking about fishing, baseball, and the memories that shaped his life. He cherished visiting friends, reminiscing about old times, and telling stories—especially about “the fish that got away.”

Remember Tommy not with sorrow alone, but with gratitude—for the laughter he gave us, the stories he shared, and the love he carried so generously. His life was a gift, and his memory will remain a blessing.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Patty Huff; his mother, Katheryn Ballard Lawrence; his sister, Patricia “Trisha” Stone Menta; his aunt and uncle, John and Glenda Ballard; and his grandparents, John and Katy Ballard, and King and Lena Huff.

He is survived by his sister, Wanda Huff of Sherman, Texas; his step-father Roger Lawrence of Edmond, Oklahoma, aunt and uncle, Jerry and Susan Ballard of Houston; Ryan Ballard of Katy, Texas; Rachael Ballard Alessi of Austin, Texas; and Briana Coleman of Wimberley, Texas.

Graveside service at 3pm on July 18, at Trinity Cemetery 613 N Goode Rd. Wilmer, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to any of the following organizations:

• The E.M. Gilliam Memorial Public Library, Wilmer, Texas

• American Heart Association

• Mothers Against Drunk Driving