John "J.R." Robert Stallworth III

It is with deep sorrow that our family announces the passing of J.R. Stallworth who slipped peacefully from this life on August 24, 2025, at the age of 97.

J.R., a native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and later a resident of Brookhaven, Georgia, was the cherished only son of the late John Robert Stallworth, Jr., and the late Gladys Sizemore Stallworth of Tuscaloosa. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary S. Griffith, and son, W. R. Stallworth. J.R. is survived by his daughter, Nancy S. Handly (Bunker), son, J. E. Stallworth, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He will always be lovingly remembered by his two devoted sisters, Dr. Dorothy S. Rutledge and Dr. Margaret S. Owens-Wheeler, as well as his four nieces: Donna L. Owens (Richard Barsky), Krista L. Owens (John Linler), Carol R. Allen (Thomas Crotty), and Dr. Barbara J. Rutledge

Raised in a Christian home, J.R. accepted Christ at an early age. Although he sometimes struggled with Science vs Judeo-Christian beliefs, he maintained his Faith.

A gifted classical pianist, he earned a graduate degree from The Virgil School of Music and was offered a music scholarship to the University of Alabama in the late 1940s. He declined that opportunity to pursue studies in Political Science, later earning his L.L.B. from Vanderbilt University School of Law following his honorable service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Though trained in law, J.R.’s heart belonged to music. After a brief period teaching school, he devoted himself fully to sharing his musical talents. His passion for entertaining led to regular piano performances at retirement homes and senior centers, where his artistry and warmth drew enthusiastic audiences. These events blossomed into lively dances tailored to the musical tastes of older generations, earning him a devoted following and countless admirers.

J.R. will be remembered not only for his musical abilities, but also for his lifelong love of sports. From the age of five, J.R. followed college football, boxing, and professional baseball with remarkable enthusiasm and encyclopedic recall—memorizing scores, dates, players, and even specific plays with uncanny precision. His unwavering devotion to the University of Alabama Crimson Tide football team spanned nearly a century, from the 1930s until his final days.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of PruittHealth – Brookhaven for their attentive care during J.R.’s final months.

A private graveside service was held at Memory Hill Gardens in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where J.R. was laid to rest in the soil of his beloved hometown.