Lem C. Stabler, Jr.

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Lem Stabler went home to heaven on July 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong adventurer at heart, Lem approached life as he did the trail: with steady footsteps, quiet strength, and a deep appreciation for the journey. We find comfort in knowing he has found eternal rest in the arms of Jesus, having blazed a beautiful path for all of us to follow.

Lem was preceded in death by his parents, Jane and Lemmie Stabler, and his beloved granddog, Gus. He is survived by his devoted bride of 47 years, Luci Stabler, and their daughters: Stacy Huffman, Sarah Shaffield (Justin), and Bethany Venable (Grant). He is also survived by his brothers Tom Stabler (Catherine) and Paul Stabler (Connie); sisters Peggy Hill and Becky Adams; brothers-in-law Tommy Ray (Carolyn) and Bo Ray; and sister-in-law Patti Nalley (the late Bill Nalley).

A gifted relationship builder, Lem enjoyed developing strong ties with family and dear friends. His favorite title was “Grandpa,” a role he embraced with joy and tenderness. He was dearly loved by his seven grandchildren: Jonah, Penelope, Eleanor, Andrew, Daniel, Fiona, and Sabrina. He was also fondly known as “The Godfather” to his sons-in-law and “Uncle Yem” to many nieces and nephews. Whether gathering at the annual Stabler Family Reunion, organizing Valentine’s lobster dinners with friends, or tailgating with loved ones in Tuscaloosa to cheer on the Tide, he was intentional about nurturing meaningful connections.

A lifelong resident of Homewood, Alabama, Lem was proud of his roots and education: an alumnus of Edgewood Elementary, Homewood Junior High, Shades Valley High School (Class of 1970), and UAB. From humble beginnings as a Birmingham News paper boy to a respected Senior Trust Officer, Lem built a career defined by integrity, dedication, and kindness. He began his career with First Alabama Bank and completed Northwestern University’s Wealth and Trust School Program. Over four decades, he faithfully served clients, many of whom became dear friends, at First Alabama Bank/ Regions, Synovus, and BB&T.

Lem’s heart for service extended far beyond his career. Alongside his brothers Tom and Paul, Lem achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and carried those values of leadership, preparedness, and service throughout his life. He volunteered for many years with the Shades Valley YMCA, where he served as Chairman of the Board for fundraising campaigns. He also dedicated time to Positive Maturity, Lions Club, Birmingham Transit Authority, and the Boy Scouts. As a lifelong member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Lem led Sunday School and Discipleship classes, and gave generously of his time through the Hospitality Network and other outreach programs. One of his favorite community efforts was leading the “Dragon Maze” committee for Edgewood Elementary’s Spring Festival while his daughters attended his alma mater.

Lem found great joy and peace in sharing his love of the outdoors: camping, hiking, biking, canoeing, rafting, scuba diving, spelunking, running and more. He was a charter member, multi-term president, and Trip Leader of the Vulcan Trail Association (VTA), leading outdoor adventures locally and across the U.S. and forming lifelong bonds with fellow nature lovers. Nature was his sanctuary: whether he was watching a sunset, enjoying a trail hike, or cooking his mom’s famous apple pie while sharing stories around the campfire.

Together, Lem and Luci poured love into their home. Luci imagined, and Lem built, with projects like a showstopper custom china cabinet, a cozy family room addition, and converting their detached garage to the “Taj Garage Playhouse” for their girls. They made their Homewood cottage a true haven, filled with warmth and welcome.

Lem lived a life rooted in love, service, and deep faith. One of his hiking creeds was to “always leave a campsite better than you found it.” Through his quiet strength, generous spirit, and steady presence, he certainly left the world better than he found it. His legacy will continue to live on in his loved ones and in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the exceptional staff of Brookdale University Park’s Clare Bridge Memory Care community for their compassion and care.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lem’s memory may be made to the organizations that supported him and our family through his journey with dementia: Trinity United Methodist Church, Camp ASCCA, Founders Place, Collat, and Encore.

Family and friends are invited to Lem’s Celebration of Life service at Trinity United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m. Inurnment will take place immediately afterward in the Trinity Prayer Garden and Columbarium.

Services are under the direction of Ridout's Valley Chapel (205.879.3401).