William "Bill" James Stone

William "Bill" James Stone, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, community leader, athlete, historian, and devoted volunteer, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2026, at Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He leaves behind a legacy of service, friendship, cultural preservation, and community involvement that deeply touched many families in Wyoming.

Born to William James Stone and Katherine Coale Stone, Bill settled in Cheyenne in 1949 and remained devoted to the city throughout his life. During his childhood, Bill and his sister lived at the historic Plains Hotel while their father worked as a federal representative for FDR Insurance. At fourteen, Bill joined the Ki-Ann Club, fostering a lifelong appreciation for American Indian culture, particularly the Sioux Nation.

Bill served as a medic in the National Guard, displaying the same spirit of service and compassion that defined his life. He was preceded in death by his former wife, Linda Stone. He is survived by his daughter, Shaunna Stone; son, William Markley; grandchildren Danika Stone, Tiana Stone, Chloe Stone, Jessica Markley, Cameron Markley, and Sebastian Markley; several great-grandchildren; and numerous friends, colleagues, and extended family members who were blessed to know him.

A talented athlete and advocate for healthy living, Bill dedicated years to the Senior Olympics movement, earning induction into its Hall of Fame. He played a pivotal role in introducing and promoting pickleball in Cheyenne, helping it become a widely popular sport in the region.

His dedication to excellence and community service also earned him places in the Laramie County Community College Hall of Fame and the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame. Bill’s association with Cheyenne Frontier Days began in 1956, evolving from a concessionaire role to over sixty years of service to this cherished tradition.

In 1965, Bill joined his father-in-law Richard "Dick" Hutchison, at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Pancake Breakfast, where he met members of the Indians Committee, leading to a lifelong commitment to honoring and preserving Native American traditions.

Appointed Chairman of the Indians Committee in 1979, Bill sought to enhance the Indian Village at Frontier Days, transforming it into a vibrant cultural center that attracted a wide array of Native participants. His friendship with Billy Evans Hunting Horse, a Kiowa chief, expanded Native involvement and enhanced the cultural richness of the event.

Bill's community involvement extended beyond Frontier Days. He volunteered tirelessly for organizations like the Elks, Kiwanis, and the Ki-Ann Indian Club, always aiming to improve his community and support others.

Those who knew Bill remember his boundless energy, unwavering integrity, and genuine kindness. He was a storyteller, mentor, volunteer, athlete, and friend who believed in the importance of relationships, preservation of traditions, and service to others.

Over more than six decades of volunteerism, leadership, and cultural advocacy, Bill helped shape Cheyenne Frontier Days into a more welcoming and meaningful celebration. His influence endures in the traditions he strengthened and the people whose lives he touched.

In leu of a service, Bill's family asks that Bill be remembered not only for his many honors but for the respect he showed, the friendships he built, and the bridges he created between cultures and generations. His legacy will continue to inspire those who follow his path of service, respect, and community dedication.