Dr. Douglas R. Stocks Jr.

Douglas Stocks, or “Daddy” to most, passed away early on the morning of March 6. He had been in declining health for quite some time but continued to enjoy exchanging emails with his many friends, playing gin rummy, and watching old black and white movies.

Dr. Stocks lived a long life with few regrets. He received his PhD in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin and spent his entire career teaching the subject he so loved. His influence was clear; many of his students developed deep friendships with him and remained in contact until the very end. Dr. Stocks was particularly proud of just how many students changed their major to Mathematics after having taken his classes. Always the professor, he took great pride in challenging people, not simply for the sake of testing them - but to help them grow stronger in their beliefs. He had a soft side as well, and many Homewood residents may know him better as Santa Claus at the Homewood Christmas parade.

Dr. Stocks found his place in the world when he entered into a position exchange with a professor at Reading University in England. He fell in love with England and her people and lifestyle, which led to many years of dividing his time between teaching at UAB and Reading University. He often quoted The Moon and Sixpence, "I have an idea that some men are born out of their due place.” He felt his due place was England and was deeply saddened once his health prevented him from returning.

Dr. Stocks was a talented photographer and in his retirement, enjoyed traveling across the country and abroad to get that perfect photo. He greatly enjoyed his membership in the local photography club and in the friendships he developed there. And while he was proud of the awards his photos won in the club’s competitions, he always maintained a sense of modesty, pointing out all the other photos that he felt were better.

He is survived by his wife Maria, children Ross (Joanna) Stocks, Crystal (Ken) Stephenson, Dana Stocks, and Chris (Karen) Gwin, 6 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and an untold number of good friends. Services will be private for the family.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsvalleychapel.com for the STOCKS family.