Stanley "Stan" Guy Herndon
August 8, 1948 ~ July 26, 2026
Born in: Wake County, NC
Resided in: Greenville, SC
Greenville, SC – Stanley “Stan” Guy Herndon, age 77, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Born in Wake County, NC on August 8, 1948, he was the son of the late Jesse Dallas Herndon and Lou Dove Herndon. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Herndon; and beloved niece, Cynthia Herndon Smith.
Stan was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He lived a life defined by hard work, kindness, and a wonderful sense of humor that left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Stan dedicated 25 years of his career to FFM and Hardee’s, where he started his career and progressed to Vice President of Research and Development. He was known not only for his strong work ethic but also for the genuine care he showed to coworkers and those he mentored along the way. In the later part of his career, he worked with the Nash County Health Department, where he was deeply respected and formed many meaningful friendships and memories.
Outside of work, Stan found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved to cook and was always trying new recipes, delighting his family with a delicious home-cooked meal each night. He always knew the importance of good food, good company and a good laugh. His kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and togetherness. He especially cherished time with his grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as “Poppy.” Whether sharing a meal, a story, or a smile, those moments meant everything to him. Stan also had a special bond with his beloved dog, Tuffy, named for his alma mater and favorite team, NC State. Stan found so much joy in spoiling Tuffy with home cooking and daily walks. Stan was a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church in Rocky Mount where he served as an Elder, Deacon and a Stephen Minister. He was currently a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC.
Stan will be remembered for his generous spirit, steady presence, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Stan is survived by his wife, Debra “Debbie” Gill Herndon; his son, Brett Herndon; his daughter, Jessica Johnson (Kevin); his cherished grandchildren, Sidney (14), Logan (3), and Aria (2 months); his extended family members; and many dear friends.
A Special Gathering of Family and Friends to celebrate Stan’s life will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
Services
Special Gathering: Thursday, July 30, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services
1130 N Winstead Avenue
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
(252) 451-8800
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I am saddened to hear about Stan’s passing…such a kind and nice man. Stan always had time for a conversation. Prayers for Debbie and the family.
We are so saddened to hear of Stan’s passing. What a gentle soul. One of the kindest people I will ever know. Such a delight to be around and a wonderful sense of humor. You laughed a lot when you were around Stan which we always considered that a gift from him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Debbie, Brett and Jessica and the entire family.
Debbie, we are sorry to hear about Stan’s passing. We are lifting prayers for you and the entire family.
So sorry to hear of Stan’s passing. He was a very special person with many gifts. He will truly be missed.
Mike and Kaye Boone
I am very glad that i got to know Stan while working at Hardees and FFM. He was just a great, witty, very smart person who had many talents. He will be missed by many. Thoughts and prayers to all his family and friends.
Bev Turner
Sincere condolences to Debbie, their children and grands upon the loss of their loyal husband, father, and grandpa. We will all miss Stan but none more than you. May the many memories of your time together soften your sorrow in the days ahead.
I had the pleasure of working together with Stan for a number of years at Hardee’s /FFM. While all who knew him would agree, Stan was a “character” with a witty and quick sense of humor. But also, and of importance, he had true character when it came to doing the “right thing” in every situation I can recall. He did not compromise about how products were produced at FFM, or how we approached developing products, or resolving occasional quality issues; he had great integrity. Frankly, I can’t recall ever seeing Stan lose his temper; despite the situation he remained calm, objective, and positive. (I can’t say that about myself or many others). I’m very proud to have had Stan as a friend.
So sorry to hear about Stan. What a wonderful person! He made a tremendous contribution to the citizens of Nash County while working at the health department.
We will all miss him.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Bill Hill
Debbie, Loved being friends with you and Stan for many years. Our work life and social life brought us together many times. Stan was always the funniest and kindest man. He loved his family more than anything. Please know that Gene and I have you in our hearts and prayers as you go through these difficult times. May God guide you in the future.
Gene & Debbie Dawes
Debbie, I am thinking about you and your family. I am so sorry to hear about Stan- what a nice man. Take care.
I am so saddened to hear of Stan’s passing. You both were wonderful neighbors in Rocky Mount. My condolences to you and your family.
Stanley held a special place in the hearts of my parents Hugh & Flo Todd since the day they arrived in Rocky Mount in 1974. Growing up I often heard many stories of the “Adventures of Stanley and Mr. Todd” as they guided FFM to the successful company it became. Please accept my condolences, Debbie. You and your extending family are in my thoughts.
Christine Wujciak Germaine
Dear Debbie and Family,
So sorry to hear about Stan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We planted 5 trees in his honor. Take care!
Shirley and Greig McAvoy