Andrew "Andy" Stanley, 95, of Barryton, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025. He was born in Vernon Township, the son of Russell and Esther (Irwin) Stanley..

Andy graduated from Barryton Agricultural School, where he excelled in many extracurricular activities. He served as class president, played lead roles in drama productions, and was captain of both the baseball and basketball teams. His passion for baseball, particularly pitching, was evident throughout his youth.

Following school, he embarked on an extensive farming career, operating the family's farm, focusing on dairy and agriculture. But his story had just begun—Andy was deeply involved in his community and always looked for ways to help and encourage others. He wore many hats, including school bus driver, meat processor, and an active participant in the Osceola Evart Fair. His involvement in the fair led to another lifelong passion—mentoring youth as a 4-H leader. He served on the 4-H board, creating countless memories, friendships, and leadership opportunities for future farmers.

Music was another lifelong love. A talented singer, songwriter, and poet, Andy recorded numerous songs and received various awards and recognitions throughout the years. He was a member of the Eastern Stanley Time and Back Porch Picker bands, with several songs earning top recognition. His music took him across the country, from performing at BB King's in Nashville to the CMA Music Festival, and even to local concerts in Barryton for friends and family. His notable works include the 4-H Bicentennial Song, and he was honored with induction into the National Traditional Country Music Hall of Fame. Today, much of his music, songs and CD's can be listened to on national platforms, Apple Music, Spotify, all over the world.

Despite his many talents and accomplishments, Andy remained dedicated to farming his homestead. He was a member of the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame, a seed corn salesman, a township board member, a founder of the Dairy Boosters, and an integral part of the Barryton Lilac Festival. His life, legacy, and contributions will forever be remembered by friends, family, and the countless individuals he touched over the years.

Andy is survived by his children: Marsha (Fred) Ray, Steven (Cristina) Stanley, Andrew Leon Stanley, Amanda (Kristi) Whittaker; grandchildren: Michael (Sharon) Ray, Fred Brian (April) Ray, Nicholas (Rebecca) Stanley, Isabella Stanley, Kyle (Torie) Stanley, Travis (partner: Kara Karcher) Stanley, and Maddelyn Whittaker; great-grandchildren: Ethan, Caleb, Carter, Ainsley, Verbena, Gabriel, Catherine, Haylee, Presley, Wesley, Everley, and Finley; great-great-grandson, Dale; and sister in-law: Ruby Stanley.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Marion (Tom) Moore, Rev. Russell (Audrey) Stanley, Donald Stanley, Marguerite, Caroline (Adelbert) Pung, and Diana (Don) Pung. He was married twice, to Lorena Williams and Kathi Stanley.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes in Barryton. Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until the time of service. He will be laid to rest at Vernon Township Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the National or Local 4-H or the Barryton Lilac Festival. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.

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