Delphia Stone's Obituary
Delphia Jean Stone, 72, of Chattanooga, TN departed this life and transitioned into eternal life on Saturday, December 20, 2025, in her home surrounded by loved ones. She was born May 18, 1953, in Haynes, Arkansas to the late Pastor Charlie and Selma Abernathy. Delphia later moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee where she attended Brainerd High School. She was married to her loving husband and caregiver for 37 years. Delphia worked for Orange Grove Center as a Direct Support Personnel and retired after 12 years. Delphia gave her life to Christ at an early age and later became a member of The Marble Top Baptist Church where she served as Sunday School teacher, Superintendent, and choir member under the leadership of the late Pastor Charlie Abernathy. Delphia later attended and joined the Rock Island Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Ronald Cook where she served as Sunday School Teacher and Superintendent, remaining faithful until her failing health. Delphia was most proud when she graduated from seminary school. Before her decline she would love to travel, work in her garden, cook, and attend church. Delphia was most happy being with her family. Delphia was known most as “baby,” and was the family favorite.
Delphia is preceded in death by her brother, Charlie Abernathy, Jr.; father, Pastor Charlie Abernathy, Sr.; brother, Micheal Abernathy; and mother, Selma Abernathy.
Those left to cherish her loving memories and celebrate her life include her loving husband, Sanford Stone; devoted sons, Timothy Taylor, Harvey Taylor, Bryan Stone, and Terry McKenzie, all of Chattanooga; loving daughters, Erica (Michael) Gordon and Tara Henderson, of Chattanooga; siblings, Norma (Larry) Ballanger of Flintstone, GA, Leroy Abernathy and Sharon Abernathy, both of Chattanooga, Gary (Esther) Abernathy of Marietta, GA, Diane Abernathy, and Joy Lynn Harden; two grandchildren, Teon Taylor and J’ayvon Taylor of Chattanooga; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.
Delphia was the glue to her family and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, bonus mom, best friend/confidant and “baby”. She had the biggest heart and would always share encouraging words even when she didn’t feel her best. Delphia’s rooted faith in Christ; her wonderful combination of warmth, kindness, laughter and love will remain strong in our hearts. Her favorite saying was “I’m still here, doing the best I can,” and she always encouraged others to do the same.
Delphia will lie-in-state on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 12:00 noon in the chapel with Pastor Gerald Spence, of First Baptist Church of Ooltewah, as Eulogist. Burial in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
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