Funeral services will be 11:00 am Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at the Willie L. Shaw Memorial Chapel. Visitation will be prior to the service.

Ronald DeVaughn Stokely, affectionately known as Drew, passed away suddenly on June 3, 2024, in his mother's home town of Wilmington, North Carolina, at the young age of 57. Born on January 19, 1967, in Copiague, New York, Ronald was the firstborn and cherished child of his mother Leona Stokely and Step-father Jimmy Broadwater. While still an infant Ronald's family relocated to Wilmington, NC. During the latter years of his youth Ronald's mom and step dad separated. After their separation Ronald resided with his stepfather Jimmy Broadwater until graduating from New Hanover Memorial High School. Being a natural athlete, Ronald excelled on the baseball field while at New Hanover Memorial High School. His exceptional skills caught the attention of professional scouts, and upon graduation, he was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury prevented him from pursuing a career in professional baseball. Undeterred, Ronald enlisted in the United States Army 73rd Maintenance, valuing his service highly. In his short tenure Ronald attained the rank of E4. Also, during his tenure he received the following, Decorations, Medals, Badges, Citations and Campaign Ribbons Awarded or Authorized (all periods of service): Army Lapel Button/Expert Badge (Rifle M-16 & Hand Grenade/Army Good Conduct Medal). Ronald was Honorably discharged from the US Army due to medical reasons related to his shoulder injury.  A few years after his HONORABLE DISCHARGE, Ronald moved to Washington, DC.  Then later on he moved to Dover, Delaware, where he joined Bible Church of God on 1202 White Oak Road and became an Ordained Deacon. During his tenure as Deacon, Ronald inspired and touched the hearts and minds of numerous youth and young adults. Ronald was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his mother, Leona Stokely; brothers Timothy (Gia), Damon, and Emanuel (Kia); sisters Renee, Jessica and Allene Broadwater; aunts Evelyn Young, Barbara Timmons, Gloria Luther (Delmas), Thelma Boston (Emmanuel), Glory Turner and Gladys Stokely; Uncle: Leon Stokely (Matilda) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.  Ronald was predeceased by his stepfather, Jimmy Broadwater; grandfather, Leon Stokely aka Frog; his grandmother, Thelma S. Stokely/Conyers; aunt, Ida Mae McMillan and uncle, Albert Conyers.  Ronald's legacy of kindness, passion, and fun-loving spirit along with his wide, bright smile and infectious laugh will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten by all who knew and loved him.