Stafford Peebles Obituary

Stafford Randolph Peebles Jr. of Winston-Salem, NC passed away at home, surrounded by loved ones, on October 6, 2024.
Stafford was born on April 14, 1941 in Burlington, NC to the late Virginia Neal and Stafford R. Peebles Sr.
He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Judy. Also left to cherish his memory are his son Todd Peebles (Angela) of Winston-Salem, NC, son Patrick Peebles (Lorraine) of Norwood, NC, daughter Diane Lewis (A.J.) of Winston-Salem, NC, son Michael Bradford (Stacy) of Winston-Salem, NC, and daughter-in-law Shelley Bradford of Winston-Salem, NC. Stafford was "Granddaddy" to ten grandchildren he adored: Rachel Furgurson (Steve) of Norwood, NC, Charlie Peebles (Johanna) of Matthews, NC, Ryan Peebles (Brooke) of Mint Hill, NC, Natalie Bradford, Will Bradford, Noah Peebles, Jonah Peebles, Elijah Peebles, Zach Lewis, and Harrison Lewis, all of Winston-Salem, NC.
Stafford was a firm believer in the importance of academics. He attended Duke University and Elon College for his undergraduate studies. In 1970, he graduated from Elon and received a Most Outstanding Student Award. He went on to obtain a law degree from The University of Chapel Hill in only two years.
He practiced law in Winston-Salem for over 50 years, a career he cherished and in which he enjoyed many accomplishments. He was a member of the American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina, and proudly served on the ACLU's Board of Directors for three years. His commitment to his work and clients made him a pillar of the legal community of Winston-Salem.
A phrase he often stated was "work hard and play hard." He lived by this mantra, frequently planning adventures and trips with his family, from jetting off to New York City to sailing around the Caribbean, and exploring various European countries.
Never one to laze around, even on vacation, Stafford loved to golf, snow ski, and scuba dive in beautiful places around the world, always with some or all of the family included. He also relished good books, delicious meals, competitive chess matches, fast cars and stiff drinks. Perhaps most of all, he found great joy in spurring his friends and family to debate, and could lead hours-long conversations delving deeply into politics and other ideas. He looked forward to voting in the upcoming elections.
Stafford savored every part of life fully, and taught his family to do the same.
To say fun times with family were his passion in life is an understatement. He participated in so many fun adventures, his family affectionately nicknamed him "Mr. Fun." His charismatic, personable nature, spontaneity, quick wit and sense of humor made every second spent with him fun.
Stafford was born with a brilliant mind and a joyful personality. He was generous with his time and insight, and would do anything to help those he cared for achieve their goals. Those who were loved by him benefitted from his complete belief in their abilities as well as his unfailing devotion and support.
Stafford made friends everywhere he went and was beloved by all who knew him. His infectious smile and genuine warmth will be dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, his family asks that donations be made in Stafford's honor to the Winston-Salem Foundation.
A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Condolences may be shared online at www.salemfh.com.