H. Stanley York

October 3, 2025

CHARLOTTE – Dr. H. Stanley York, born on April 6, 1951, in Mt. Holly, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. A devoted scholar, husband, father, and man of deep faith, Stan’s life was marked by a steadfast commitment to learning, service, and spiritual guidance.

Stan graduated from Mt. Holly High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from East Carolina University. He went on to receive a Master of Divinity from Asbury Seminary as well as a Master of Theology from Duke University, culminating in a Ph.D. from Regent University's School of Divinity. His academic path reflected not only intellectual rigor but also a profound desire to understand and share the mysteries of faith.

Throughout his life, Stan remained deeply rooted in his spiritual convictions. He prayed daily for “God to contend aggressively for your souls,” and often reminded his children to give God the glory for all blessings. His words echoed the belief that while we are all precious in each other’s sight, we are even more so in the sight of God. A quote by Yo-Yo Ma captured his approach to life: “Each day I move toward that which I do not understand. The result is a continuous accidental learning which constantly shapes my life.”

Stan was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Valerie Allen Goode York on August 17, 2025; his parents, Betty and Harold York; and his brother Kim York. Stan and Valerie would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on October 4, 2025. 

His legacy is with his six children: Lyndsey Durham Robbins (Mark), William Stanley York (Emily), Elizabeth "Bess" Alexander York, Catherine Noel Edwards (Ralph), Colin Montgomery York (Katherine), and Susannah Painter York. Stan was blessed with six grandchildren: Mary, Connell, Lelia, Julia, Diana, and Jane—each one a testament to the enduring love he cultivated within his family. His love extended beyond his immediate family—to his nephew Nathaniel Sigmon York (Jocelyn and their son Beckham) and niece Nicolette York Latham (Joshua and their children Mila, Cora Lee, and Cohen). 

Stan lived by the words of John Wesley: “Do all the good you can, by the means you can, in all the places you can, as long as you can.” 

A visitation will be held at 2:30p.m. and memorial service to follow at 3:30p.m. on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Stanley Pentecostal Holiness Church 113 E Parkwood St, Stanley, NC 28164.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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  • Joseph Steele

    I was saddened to hear yesterday of the passing of this friend and brother in Christ. Stan York has visited our School of Ministry and General Assembies in Zion Assembly Church of God on several occasions through the years. He always presented a personal side of ministry and learning which resonated with me. We are both from NC and I always appreciated that flavor in his manner of speech and conversation. He was a man of God and exuded a sweet spirit towards the people of God. You will be missed my friend.

  • Marie Spurling Crook

    Sending my love and condolences to the family. Stan and I met many years ago at Fields of the Wood. We were historians and our friendship lingered thru the years continuing to find and uncover all we could of the Church. Just spoke to him several weeks ago and he told me he was battling the cancer enemy. Then I texted later sending prayers and no more contact then got the news. So thankful we had made acquaintance and shared our history notes but .most of all our love of our knowledge of our savior Jesus Christ thats all that matters. Rest in peace dear Stan. Meeting will come again soon!

  • Rev. Doug Beane-Hall

    Dr. Stan York was a good friend, a godly man who loved the Lord, His church, and the Word of God. We had many conversations about the great revivals and moves of God across the ages. Until we met in the air or at the feet of Jesus, I will strive to love as Stan did with a smile and a laughter which would brighten the room when he walked in.

  • Harold Dean Painter

    2nd cousin to Stan

  • David Abernathy

    We have known Stan and Valerie for more than 45 years, and they will be sorely missed. They have touched so many lives, and it wouldn't be possible to name them all.

  • Denene Surbaugh

    Pastor Stan, what a great impact you had on my life. During one of the hardest times I've had, you were there to help me thru the struggles. Always answered my call and helped me truly understand how to navigate thru it. You and Valerie, we're truly my best friends! I'm so happy for you both. Celebrating each other's home coming with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When I think of y'all I cry because you're gone, but so happy that you're home, finally!! Amen!!!!!!!