I met Gren when we were Stationed at Bentwaters Air Force Base in England back in 1966-1967.  Worked on the Phantom F-4C Fighter Jet.  Worked together for 3 years and even went Temp Duty Assignment to Whellus  Air Force Base in Tripoli, Africa several times.  Gren was a hard worker and we also Partied once in a while.  LOL. I should have said we worked once in a while. I was so sorry to see him suffer the way he did and he took it in stride.  Well his pain is gone but his memory will last forever.  The world lost a good Man  when it lost Greenard Stanley.

We are so sorry for the loss of a good friend and brother. When we first moved into the Denali subdivision Gren and Nanette were the first couple we met. They are beautiful people. Jerome and Gren  talked about mustangs and race cars often. They also enjoyed cooking out and going out to different restaurants with their wives. A special memory was the Spirit of Norfolk for Jerome's Birthday. Gren had a special place in our hearts and he will definitely be missed! We Love you! Rest in peace!

On Gren's 70th birthday last year, Nanette hosted a birthday party for him at the Grapevine Restaurant.
After we had all eaten, Gren and Nanette got up to dance.  He asked me to come dance with him.  
He was a good dancer and we enjoyed ourselves immensely.  It meant a  lot to me that he asked me to dance with him. 
 I will never forget it.

When I first met Gren & Nanette I thought they were quiet and reserved, but I soon discovered that they were both energetic and outgoing.  I did not know Gren very long, but the devotion he had to Nanette was always obvious.  His positive spirit will be missed and remembered.  

Although we did know you a long time we will always remember your smile and all the good times we had! We will miss you. Love, Cliff & Julie

I have many friends in my life, but true friends I can count on half of my hand. I am blessed that one of those friends was Gren. Gren was always thoughtful, caring and true to his word. You always knew where you stood with Gren, whether he agreed with you or not. 

Now knowing he is in the arms of our Lord, with a new healthy body and all of his loved ones, makes me happy. I know we will be together again in friendship. I am happy to have had you in my life. 

Until next time we meet my great friend,
Tony D.

Every now and then in life's journey you meet someone who has the extraordinary ability to live in the moment. Gren did that. He shared his years of addiction and depression but was not a victim of those darker days. Instead he shared his light and lived in the moment , expressing joy in being with his beloved Nan and her family, of seeing the goodness in all things and people. When I first met him I thought his name was grin, because he most often came into a room wit that twinkle and sense of fun.  Gren endured much pain and disappointment with his last illness, making others feel comfortable around him, negating any self-pity or bitterness.  He was so easy to be with and what comfort and peace he is bringing to his fellowmen in Heaven as he did here. I will surely miss him.

Nannette,   we are truly saddened for your heartache and loss of Gren... ❤️❤️ Love of your life and soulmate... I first met Gren , over 20 yrs ago, when he worked at the Veterans Hospital, and I became his hairstylist , for all these years, and later for Nannette also... I remember when Gren had a full big head of hair , no gray at all... and I always told him from first meeting him , that he  looked like   Jack Nicholson…  and he did!  From that point on I think he thought he was a movie star when he came in the salon… All of the older women ,  in the roller sets under the hairdryers, thought he looked like Jack also…he always joked with me about his hair , when receding ,that he was going to shave it into a mohawk… but he didn't…   Gren was  such a funny guy…always a big smile and positive words for everyone, a bright ray of sunshine 🌞 !  He even sat around after his haircut and just talked and  always a big smile, and positive words for everyone, ! Gren  had such great passion for photography...he opened up his own studio and did a lot of freelance and weddings , children and families, for many people… he was the best  photographer I know,  and he took beautiful  outdoor pictures , of one of my teen daughters  in her ballet, pointe and tap outfits..... such beautiful portraits that we have enjoyed over the years… he was just a happy go lucky person… But I never saw him any happier and content in his life, then when he met Nannette....😀😀 they truly were created by God, for one another in total love and harmony!  😍😍 I was honored to witness and completely enjoy their beautiful wedding vows to each other and oh what fun the reception was! I remember they played the song , by Beatles...When I'm 64...❤️❤️ because he finally got married at 64!  I even caught the brides bouquet, and a month later met my soulmate, George, which we attribute to their amazing love for each other , that we found the  same kind of special love... Gren is always with you, Nannette... we❤️You

To lose someone I loved so much brings pain beyond belief
There are no words to ease my pain my sadness and my grief
 I've lost someone so close so wonderful and  so special
Missing your laughter and smile
I think about your special ways and wish that you were near
But although you have left this world you'll stay within my heart
Guiding like an angel even though we are apart
For love is everlasting and so are my memories
Your legacy that's always there to light the way for me.
Love Always Babycakes

Remembering lots of fun times, especially your 60th and 70th birthday celebrations. We all had so much fun. Family gatherings were always very special with you. RIP, Gren.
                                                            Love,
                                                           Aunt Denise 

I am deeply saddened by the loss of my good friend and brother Gren.  You meant the world to everyone who was fortunate enough to know the real you. Under a rough exterior was a man who had one of the biggest hearts I have ever known. You lived life to the fullest, and knew how precious it was. And, you shared it with everyone you knew. You were always there for those who needed you, and always had a grin on that beautiful face. Your bravery facing what you had to face was humbling. I will indeed miss you, and you will always have my respect. So long my friend, until we meet again.  

Our memories of Gren were just wonderful. He was a caring and devoted friend that no matter what he was going through, he was always there for you. I personally had the pleasure to meet Gren once I retired from the military in 2013 though his wife Nanette. From day one, he always showed compassion, happiness, and treated you just like his own brother or a close family member. 

I had the honor to care for him while he was hospitalized last year and although he was going thru so many painful and difficult moments, he always assured me that no matter what he was going to make it and always had a smile of positive attitude that was contagious. That was just plain and simple the way Gren was; a humble, happy, and very devoted friend and family man. 

Although he has departed for Heaven, his memories will live forever with us and we couldn’t be any more proud and privileged to have met him. We can rest assure that he is now looking upon all of us and continue to show his love to all of us in some happy and magical way. Rest in peace my brother! We love you and miss you dearly!




Our memories of Gren were just wonderful. He was a caring and devoted friend that no matter what he was going through, he was always there for you. I personally had the pleasure to meet Gren once I retired from the military in 2013 though his wife Nanette.  From day one, he always showed compassion, happiness, and treated you just like his own brother or a close family member. 

I had the honor to care for him while he was hospitalized last year and although he was going thru so many painful and difficult moments, he always assured me that no matter what he was going to make it and always had a smile of positive attitude that was contagious. That was just plain and simple the way Gren was; a humble, happy, and very devoted friend and family man. 

Although he has departed for Heaven, his memories will live forever with us and we couldn’t be any more proud and privileged to have met him. We can rest assure that he is now looking upon all of us and continue to show his love to all of us in some happy and magical way. Rest in peace my brother! We love you and miss you dearly!




Our dear Gren has always been such an uplifting person. A kind smile and bright eyes were the usual look on his face. He had a genuine interest in other people, which I'm sure is one of the reasons that he made friends so easily. I will never forget Gren and Nanette's constant love and support for Mom. She looked forward to visits and holidays with you, and I always knew that those days were going to be filled with smiles, laughter, and love. Not everyone finds the type of love that Gren and Nanette found with each other. We love you both dearly and wish you healing and peace during this time, always keeping your cherished memories close in your heart.

Gren will be missed by everyone who ever knew him. He was a wonderful man. My family and I were so blessed to have called him friend. A memory that I have that shows Gren's character was 2 Christmases ago at Nan's Mom's. I went to sit on the couch with Nan and my daughter and got a cramp in my hamstring. I was crying and laughing as I walked around trying to get it to go away. I'm in the kitchen leaning against the table and Gren comes over and starts rubbing my leg and cracking jokes. When someone was hurting he would do whatever he could to make it better. With love we say goodbye. Fly free my friend until we meet again...

Gren was a  big part of our extended family. We spent a lot of fun times whether it was board game night, going out to dinner, swapping car parts. club events, or our famous ER parties. See, it wasn't always the family visiting Gren. It was often Gren and Nanette joining us in the ER to party with whomever was injured. Most notably, Mike's broken nose, Mom Betty's broken wrist, Mom Betty's foot. We would hang out, take silly selfies and share lots of laughs. Often we'd post the antics on Facebook as a way to update the rest of our friends.

If someone was being admitted, we didn't leave it in the ER waiting room. Once we got to the room, we drew pictures on the Nursing board, wrote silly notes, took more silly selfies and reminded the patient that they were well loved.  It was just another way we showed how much we all love and take care of each other.  Love Militza, Rusty and Mom Betty

I met Gren when Nannette when we started job together. He was the nicest, most caring and sincere gentleman I ever met.  I loved to see him smile and hear him laugh.  He gave the most wonderful hugs. Always willing to lend a helping hand.  I used to get a kick out of watching him pick up Nannette in the green mustang.  My heart is saddened and I will miss you. Farewell until we meet again.

Friends are sweet, friends are fine
Honored to say, Gren was a friend of mine.

I Loved your smile.
I Loved your Laughter
Someday I hope to meet you in the forever after.

We became friends because of Nan, your bride, your love your one and only .

We shared cruises, parties., hot tubs, Baltimore Inner Harbor, The Bahamas, and so much more.

Forever you will hold a place in my heart, Love you dearly.
Your Ritabeeta 






What a pleasure it has been  to know Gren. He was a man who truly enjoyed life and especially his time with Nanette and friends. If you would look up the word "character", his name would be at the top of the list. Although I have known Gren and Nanette for only two years, it has been an honor to socialize with both of you guys. I cannot pass by a Subway without thinking of Gren and his huge grin. Until we meet again.  Larry


I first met gren at a car show a few years ago on this day it was gray and misty rain he had brought over a car from Richmond ford I went over to talk with him not knowing who he was at the time he greeted me with a smile and a hand shake that gray day became so much better from then on he treated me like family I had the opportunity to see him many times after this he was always the same a smile and hand shake he and his wife came to my wedding thay where so kind to the both of us I will never forget him he was a ray of sunshine even on the bad days so my friend rest in peace in god's hands till we meet again

You will be sadly missed by all of us, especially all of the fun times at family celebrations.   With much love, The Martinek’s

Hope you’re crusin along some winding road in a fast 'Stang with the top down! 🚗

Gren and Nan were my now 86 year-old mother's neighbors for several years. My mother and I lived in different states and she was still living independently at the time.  Before the neighbors even met, Gren and Nan had kept an eye on Mom and named her Granny! The friendship grew, and Mom called Gren her boyfriend. He took her places when she gave up her car, and she always wanted him to escort her when we were out and about. Our family will never forget the amazing love and kindess Gren and Nan showed my mother, and the great comfort it gave us knowing they were nearby. I pray we all carry forward Gren's love of life, fun, and genuine caring for others. I pray, too, that Gren's family and friends and especially his dear Nan, will have their spirits buoyed by that same love and caring from all of us that loved him.

Where do you start when that quirky, somewhat sarcastic smile dances across your sky and leaves a trace of efferervescence.... followed by the sweet smile of his wife...and you know immediately they share a secret bond of communication and love.. and now it is interrupted by death.  Not permanent, mind you, but all physical contact is temporarily blocked.  I have not known Nannette and Gren in numbers of years, but I feel I've known them and been counted as  friends for ages.  I will continue to be a Christian friend, a bridge, a transition.,,but now there is a very wonderful GOD who can take care of all the hurt and pain..Gren is there, and someday we all will be!  Rejoice in our sorrow, and through our tears may we see rainbows.  Gren will be remembered in so many ways, as you will be, Nannette.  You are loved!!!!

"Denali"  LOL    So glad our paths crossed!   Two things I know for sure that this man loved; his wife, Nanette & cars.  Nanette you noticed that I did put you first but he just about wore me out until we found that perfect home with the THIRD garage.   Denali; he was excited that sign was in his front yard.  For those that don't know as I didn't until Gren informed me.....it means "Great One"...Perfect!  I loved to laugh with him! ~! Hugs & Prayers  to all the loved him!  

I met Gren through Nanette the better part of 10 years ago. In working with Nanette (whom I became close to), she shared her ups and downs , good times and bad with me. Most of which involved Gren.  I attended their wedding . It was beautiful! There I watched two people that were obviously very in love become one. It was tough to see them move but they stayed in touch. They stayed with me for a couple of days while visiting.  The next few years seeing all of their photos and good times they had made me happy.  Gren was a very special, selfless, kind man. I know that he is happy and content now. And someday  when it is time his wife will join him. He will always be with her. He will be greatly missed.

My husband , daughter and I met Gren and Nannette when we first moved to Virginia. Gren was always there to help us with anything we needed, you never had to ask...
Thanks Gren for being such a wonderful person and a truly great friend.   We will remember you always. 

I haven't known the Stanleys long, but Gren was always fun to be around. He was my Black Cherry soda buddy when we used to go to Jason's after Mustang Club meetings. We will miss him so much.
Rest in peace my friend.    Amy B.

I always appreciated Gren's sense of humor. He was fun to be around and was a gourmet chef, having been classically trained on the George Foreman electric grill. His hot dogs were an international sensation which drew a loyal crowd from Frankfurt, Germany. Although I served in the Army, Gren was always proud of his Air Force service. I salute his service to America, I am thankful for having known him  and I share deep condolences to Nanette and the rest of his family.

Knowing him was always a smile and a laugh,always a good time. He loved every minute of his life. He will be missed ,and thought of for an easy smile.

I was Nanette & Grens wedding planner in Cape May. For years they still came to see me. My favorite memory was our Halloween party that they attended, we had such a fun evening. I will miss Grens love & laughter, I know he will be visiting Cape May from above any chance he gets. My love and support are with the entire family.

~Katlyn Mogavero

I always enjoyed seeing you both when you would come in to the bank! Gren always had a smile on his face and always joking around with me! Every time before he walked out the door I would say "stay out of trouble!" He would laugh and basically say that was not gonna happen! Nanette we are sending you and the family lots of love and hugs. 

During this difficult time, we celebrate the life and all the wonderful memories we all have created with Gren Stanley. He will never be forgotten. Knowing that he is no longer in pain brings us peace. Heaven has gained an angel that we will meet again. We are so sorry for your loss Nanette. May all the wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort. XOXO

OBITUARY

Greenard Royal Stanley Jr.

June 26, 1947 – June 8, 2018

Woody Funeral Home-Parham

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