The Life and Legacy of Donald Stone
Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images Courtesy of Lindsay Rice and Brooke Winkler
In the heart of Sumiton, Alabama, where the warmth of Southern hospitality meets the rugged terrain of coal country, a man named Donald Wesley Stone was born on July 21, 1946. His life was an extraordinary journey of resilience, determination, and a commitment to his family and community.
Donald's daughters, Lindsay Stone Rice and Brooke Stone Winkler, remember their father as a friendly, caring, and outgoing man with an unbreakable work ethic. His love for people knew no bounds, and he never met a stranger. As a devoted member of the Sumiton Church of God, Donald cherished teaching Sunday School to 5th and 6th graders, sharing his faith and his hobbies.
Yet, Donald's path to becoming a beloved figure in the community began in the depths of the local coal mines. At age 27, a fellow churchgoer recognized Donald's potential and encouraged him to explore a career in the mining industry, a thriving and vital part of the local economy. It marked a turning point in his life, leading to a lifelong career as a coal miner.
"One of the things I will always remember about my father in terms of the coal mines were his hands," Lindsay says. "They had a permanent color of coal. He used strong soap to get the coal off his hands, but all his hard work stained them. This will always be a solid reminder of how hard he worked for our entire family."
Donald began his journey as a coal miner at Kellerman mines in Tuscaloosa County. His role as a mechanic for heavy machinery kept him close to the heart of the mining community, where he cherished the friendship of his colleagues. It was a life of hard work, but it provided stability and a strong sense of purpose.
However, the life of a coal miner was not without its challenges. Donald faced layoffs on three occasions during his career, with one of the most significant occurring in the 1990s. During this time, he seized the opportunity to further his education at Bevill State Community College, earning an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration License and honing his electrician skills. His perseverance paid off when Drummond Coal Company sponsored his training in electrician and plumbing certifications.
In a bold move, Donald transitioned to Shoal Creek Mine. This job held its own set of anxieties due to the deep underground conditions. As a Fire Boss, he was responsible for monitoring underground gas levels, a role that kept him mainly above ground—a relief for someone who, as Donald had, developed a fear of extended periods underground. In 2002, an accident while working above ground left him with physical challenges. Still, he continued to work in the mines for another 17 years while running his Heating and Air company.
Membership in the United Mine Workers Association was a point of pride for Donald, as he believed in this organization's importance in securing better pay and benefits for miners. It was a testament to his dedication to his family and the broader mining community.
On June 6, 2018, following a courageous battle against Multiple Myeloma, Donald Stone passed away at age 71. He left a legacy of resilience, hard work, and an enduring love for his family, community, and the University of Alabama Crimson Tide.
In the heart of coal country, Donald Stone's legacy continues to burn brightly through those on whom his career and personal life had a strong impact—a testament to the indomitable spirit of a man who dedicated his life to his family and community. 78