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Hugh Dell Stinson, 76, of Andalusia, felt a calling to serve his community his whole life, and did he answer.

After graduating from Woodson High School in 1965, he was drafted into the US Army where he was stationed in Germany. After being honorably discharged, he enrolled at Alabama State University where he pledged Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, was a member of the Mighty Hornet University football team, and majored in Physical Education and minored in Biology. After graduation he worked briefly as a physical education teacher, then various odd jobs. After settling in Andalusia, marriage, and two kids, he answered the call to serve again and in 1980 became an Alabama State Trooper. He served at their Evergreen, Dothan posts and finally ascended to the rank of sergeant over the driver license division over Montgomery, Mobile, and Evergreen where he retired in 2015.

He was a member of the Alabama National Guard and in the year 2003 was deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom. He served as First Sergeant over the 781st Transportation Company over their deployment. He retired from service in 2006.

He was a member of the Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church his whole life. He dutifully served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, financial officer, and member of the male chorus.

Each Sunday you could find him in the pews, leading prayers, and sometimes teaching Sunday school. His church family miss his big voice, cheerful spirit, and spirit of devotion.

He was a member of the Masons IDA Lodge 315. He was a community leader in various organizations throughout the Andalusia community. He was always eager and willing and eager to help, give advice, and give recommendations for all who asked. He was a big jokester who always had a joke ready to deliver to lift your spirit and put a smile on your face. He never met a stranger and left an impression no one forgot. He did not want us to grieve for long and would want his memory to bring a smile and a laugh. His family wants you to smile through your tears and embody his happy spirit.

Funeral services will be held Friday, July 14, 1 p.m., at the Kiwanis Community Center. Burial will follow at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery, 902 Fletcher Road, Andalusia, Alabama.

Visitation will be Thursday, July 13, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Kirk’s Funeral Chapel in Andalusia.