Mary Preston "Pres" Hutton Stanley

Abingdon, VA - Mary Preston “Pres” Stanley, a beloved wife, mother, “MeeMaw”, aunt, teacher and friend, passed away on September 14th, 2024, at the age of 79 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was born on February 2, 1945- Groundhog Day- in Marion, Virginia, to the late Eleanor and Thomas Dunn Hutton, Jr. and grew up in Glade Spring, VA. She was a graduate of Patrick Henry High School and Emory and Henry College. She taught in Smyth and Washington Counties for over 18 years. 

Pres cherished her small-town upbringing. Growing up alongside her brothers, Tom and Jim, she loved trying to keep up with them, always filled with humor, mischief and a desire to be “one of the boys”. She had a deep love for her home, which she made a haven of warmth and comfort. She treasured her mornings watching the sunrise from her backyard, where she delighted in the antics of birds and squirrels. Her home was a place where she made everyday moments special, whether through a simple gesture or an unexpected moment of joy. Family gatherings often revolved around lively conversations in the kitchen with friendly disputes over who would get the coveted rocking chairs.

For 50 years, Pres hosted an annual Christmas dinner that brought family and friends together in celebration. Her home was also the setting for “Camp Meemaw” in the summer where she created lasting memories and adventures. These traditions were a testament to her boundless love and dedication to her family. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment with them. A devoted member of Abingdon United Methodist Church, Pres served for years on the parament committee. Her unwavering faith was a central part of her life.

Pres was renowned for her practical knowledge and advice, always offering sound and thoughtful guidance. Her wisdom, often shared with a touch of humor, made her a trusted confidante and advisor. Despite her long battle with cancer, Pres lived with strength, grace and humor. Her love for life, her mischievous spirit, and her ability to find joy in even the smallest moments will be remembered by all who knew her. As a teacher, she brought the world to life for her students. Whether she was bringing in a spider to study its web, taking her students outside to jump in puddles after a rainstorm, or pulling a practical joke on her fellow teachers, she made learning fun and memorable. She approached education with the same curious spirit she carried through life, always finding ways to inspire. 

Pres was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Dr. Jim Stanley, her brother, Trooper T.D. Hutton, III, and her parents, T.D., Jr. and Eleanor Hutton, and her brother-in-law, Joe Stanley. She is survived by her three children: Susie Riggs and her husband Jason of Salisbury, NC; Reed Stanley and his wife Amanda of Lebanon, VA; and Matt Stanley and his wife Amy of Safety Harbor, Florida; five grandchildren, Jaylee Stanley, Juliana Stanley, DJ Stanley, Katelyn Stanley and Hazel Stanley. She is also survived by her brother, Jim Hutton, and wife Donna of Glade Spring, VA and her sister-in-law, Sue Stanley of Wytheville, VA; nieces Jane Castle, Deborah Ferguson, Tracey Crigger and nephew Neal Hutton. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her cherished friends who offered unending love and support throughout the years, the Ballad Regional Cancer Center -Indian Path practice of Kingsport, TN led by Jesse Begley, NP and Miranda Thomas, NP who provided extraordinary medical guidance and to Maple Grove Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility of Lebanon, VA for their kind and compassionate care. 

The family will receive friends 12:00-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18th at Abingdon United Methodist Church with a celebration of life service to follow at 1:30 p.m. officiated by Rev. Paul Seay. Interment will follow in Old Glade Presbyterian Church Cemetery with members of her family serving as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Abingdon United Methodist Church and Old Glade Presbyterian Church-Cemetery Fund in memory of Pres. 

Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register. The family of Pres Stanley is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 623-2700.