Edward "Ed" Stemple Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Edward “Ed” Stemple, 80, of Cross City passed away on June 23, 2019, at ET York Hospice Center in Gainesville, FL. Ed loved and spoiled Cecile, his wife of 23 years, every chance he got. They were a match made in heaven. Ed worked at Suwannee Lumber as a foreman and had a work ethic like no other. He made many lifelong friends there and treasured each of them. He was a proud Veteran of the United States Army. Ed loved hunting in Rock Level Hunting Club and had since 1966 when he first went down the Bowlegs Mainline to meet P.K. Hunt. Ed was known as Double Barrel to all. Most days he could be found at Hoyt’s Camp sitting and waiting on the next race. He loved to talk and visit as much as hunting. He also enjoyed fishing on the Suwannee River, particularly with his brother-in-law Maxie Beauchamp. Ed always had a full snack box and we all knew where to go when we were hungry. Ed could tell jokes like no other and loved being a prankster. His grin could light up a room and put a smile on everyone’s face. Ed never met a stranger; he could talk to anyone, anytime, about anything. Ed’s life revolved around his family. Even during his last days, he worried about all of us and always made sure we were all ok with a thumbs up. He loved his grandkids and great-grandchildren with his whole heart. Ed enjoyed spending time in the mountains and the family had made several trips over the years to the Smokeys. Family and extended family went and these are great memories. The last few years he enjoyed trips with his cousin and wife, Sam and Dena McClure. During the summer Ed would go to Clearwater where his two sisters and their families live to spend time at the beach. He loved watching the family visit and have fun. The family would like to thank everyone who has helped over the last year and a half whether it was by prayers, bringing food, or a phone call or text, we appreciate each and every one of you. Ed is survived by his wife Cecile Howell Stemple, his sons Mike Stemple (Krishna), Jeff Stemple (Tammy), Kenny Stemple, and Lyndell Howell (Tonya), his daughters Becky Bussard (Frank) and Cheryl Howell (Troy), his sisters Susan Kubes (Tom) and Barbara Adams, 18 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and other extended family members. Funeral services for Ed will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, June 29, 2019 at the Rick Gooding Funeral Home Cross City Chapel, with Pastor Max Beauchamp officiating. The Family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. The family would like to express their appreciation for the care Ed received at North Florida Regional Medical Center and the ET York Hospice Center. Arrangements have been placed under the care of Rick Gooding Funeral Home Cross City, Florida 352-498-5400 and Chiefland, Florida 352-493-0050. Please sign the online guest book at rickgoodingfuneralhomes.com

Edward "Ed" Stemple

January 14, 1939 - June 23, 2019