Our beloved Michael Stone passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Michael was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina to the late John B. and Frances Stone on February 7, 1948. Michael grew up in Springfield, Massachusetts. As a child he loved playing sports endlessly in Forest Park. He graduated from Classical High School and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree from St. Anselm’s College where he played basketball. He earned a master’s degree in English from the University of New Hampshire and a Juris Doctor degree from Western New England College.

Michael met his first and only love, Gail, on the beachside of Cape Cod when he was a teenager. They later married at Our Lady of Victory Church and recently celebrated their 46^th wedding anniversary.

Michael was a longtime resident of South Yarmouth where he practiced law for over forty years and took great pride in being part of the Cape’s close knit legal community. He served as a member of the Yarmouth Select Board for the past 12 years and worked tirelessly to serve the Yarmouth community.

An avid sports fan, Michael loved watching the Celtics win the NBA title and cheering on team USA in the recent the Olympics. Athletics were transformational in his life and he shared his competitive spirit and love of sport with countless youth. Michael presided on the Yarmouth Recreation Commission for 25 years. He coached youth basketball and soccer for decades and with the honor of coaching alongside his best friend, the late Fred Thacher. His players affectionately called him, “Motown Mike” due to his passion for Motown music, which he blasted on his portable radio on the sidelines.

Michael enjoyed taking Italian lessons every Saturday and became dear friends with his teacher, Guido Farina. He had a passion for literature and was an excellent writer. Michael savored time reading to and playing with his two grandchildren. He will be remembered for his work ethic, determination, creativity, intellect and most importantly his desire for justice and service to others.
 
Michael is survived by his wife, Gail (Insley) Stone and daughters, Kara Stone and Leah Rockwell and his son-in-law Corey Rockwell. He leaves behind two adoring grandsons, Logan and Nolan Rockwell as well as several nephews and nieces. He is additionally survived by his brothers, Kevin and Paul Stone and sister Sandra Hines. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers John, Alan and Francis Stone.

His family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and medical staff who provided exceptional, and compassionate care in the oncology unit at Cape Cod Hospital.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, August 22^nd from 4 to 7 at Hallett Funeral Home, 273 Station Ave., South Yarmouth, MA  with a funeral Mass on Friday, August 23^rd at 11 am at Saint Pius X Church, Station Ave., South Yarmouth, MA.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Yarmouth Recreation Department, 1146 Rt. 28 South Yarmouth, MA 02664 to support scholarships so all children can share in the joy of sports.  

Mike was such a good friend and we shared so many good times together, as we served together on the Yarmouth Recreation Committee for several years, coached our children together on the Youth soccer team, and also coached together in the Yarmouth Youth Basketball League. You will be greatly missed Mike. All God's blessings and comfort for Gail, Kara, Leah and family.

I never knew Mike, but oh, how I love his Gail and girls. RIP

May perpetual light shine on you, Michael my friend.

Thank You Mr.Stone for all that you did for the town of Yarmouth and all her people. Rest in heavenly peace. Thank you to your family for giving you all that time away from them for us. Your all in my thoughts and prayers.

Coach Stone, You believed in me like no other!! Your strength, love and friendship made me the athlete I once was. You and your family are always in my heart!! I will hold onto these memories. You will be greatly missed.

I am so SADDENED for the Loss of Mike! Me met when we moved here to Yarmouth in 1985, when my kids started school at ME Small. Our families were side by side all thru the school/college years, we worked together on Sports, town activities and anything he thru our way... Flax Pond, DY Soccer League.. he was a coach to my kids. Ran into each other in the POST KIDS Years for 1 thing or another. Always Great to catch up and chat... Gail I am so sorry for Your Loss of Your MIKE! Unfortunately - I will be in Boston & unable to attend services & Celebration of your Great Man... Love to YOU & the Family! Prayers & LOVE sent to You ALL! LAW

Mike was a wonderful person. He helped me with so many times when I needed legal help. Loved listening to all his stories. He will be missed by so many people.