Lawrence Charles Stoker

With gratitude for a life lived in faith we announce the passing of Lawrence C. (Larry) Stoker, Sr. who passed away at the age of 99 in Columbia, SC on February 16th. Larry touched the lives of everyone who had the honor of knowing him.

Born in High Point, NC on July 12, 1926, Mr. Stoker, after graduating from High Point High School, enlisted in the US Navy during World War II. He served proudly in the Asiatic-Pacific Theatre, participating in the assault and invasion of Okinawa in 1945. Following the Japanese surrender, he was part of the first occupation forces landing at Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan. Honorably discharged after the war, he returned to High Point, attending High Point University and the University of North Carolina Law School at Chapel Hill.

Upon passing the NC State Bar in 1951, he and his wife Jackie moved to Asheville, NC where he practiced law for a period of 45 years. He was privileged to be admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court in 1978. In addition to the general practice of law, he also served as US Magistrate for the Western District of North Carolina, an attorney for the Buncombe County Schools, an attorney for the Buncombe County Tax Collector, a public administrator for Buncombe County, and as Assistant Public Defender for the 28tth Judicial District of North Carolina.

Apart from the practice of law and legal positions held, Larry dedicated his life to serving others through numerous business, civic and church organizations. He was honored to receive the Buncombe County Junior Chamber of Commerce Young Man of the Year Award. He served on the Board of Directors of the Salvation Army and the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Eye Bank Association. In addition, he was the District Governor of District 31-A of Lions International, receiving the Lions Man of the Year Award. He also served as President of Asheville Shrine Club and other boards and commissions. He and his wife Jackie were active members of Central United Methodist Church in Asheville, participating in the educational and spiritual life and growth of the church.

After retirement, he and Jackie spent 20 years living on Siesta Key in Sarasota, Florida before relocating to Columbia SC.

Larry was predeceased in death by his beloved and devoted wife of 63 years who passed away in 2011, Jackie Williamson Stoker, a registered nurse.

Larry was devoted to his family and his faith in God. He entered into the joy of the Lord surrounded by his four children: Charles Stoker and wife Phyllis of Elgin, SC; David Stoker and wife Monica of Santa Barbara, CA; Karen Stoker Hooper of San Diego, CA; and Neal Stoker and wife Terry of Chapin, SC. He also leaves a legacy of love to his 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Currently Larry is a member of Northeast Presbyterian Church in Columbia. A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, February 27 at 2:00p.m. at Wildewood Downs, Columbia, SC. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 28 at 1:00p.m. at Floral Garden Park Cemetery, High Point, NC. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northeast Presbyterian Church, 601 Polo Road, Columbia, SC 29223 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Interment will be at Floral Garden Park Cemetery in High Point, NC. We are grateful to God for his life lived with grace and gratitude and deep devotion to his family.