Stanley will be remembered for his twenty years of dedicated service in the United States Air Force, where his passion was maintaining military jet aircraft. Following his retirement from Luke AFB in October 1996, he pursued various roles before discovering a new passion in commercial aviation with AirTran/Southwest, from which he later retired. He was also a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan, enthusiastically displaying his Terrible Towel at every opportunity. He approached meals with equal enthusiasm, whether it was a simple dish of spam, rice, and green beans, or a more luxurious meal of lobster, shrimp, and oysters.

Stanley is survived by, Wife of almost 31 years Brigette Craig, Brothers Andy and Scott Craig, Sister Kelli Lezcano, Daughters Melissa Craig and Katelynn Canter, Son Jonathan Craig and Grandchildren Eleanor and Ronan.

Stanley will be cremated and laid to rest with his children. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to veteran or kidney disease charities.