Stanley Leon Judd, age 86, of Decatur, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026.

He was born May 22, 1940, in Meigs County, Tennessee, was truly a one-of-a-kind man. His life was built around hard work, family, the river, good food, laughter, and making memories that will last for generations.

Stanley grew up helping his father farm, learning the meaning of hard work at an early age. He later became a proud member of Local Union 917, working as a Crane Operator for 55 years. He was recently honored with his 55-year pin, a remarkable achievement that reflected his dedication and work ethic. Stanley was also a proud United States Army Veteran.

In 1958, Stanley married the love of his life, Wanda, affectionately known as "Shorty." Together they shared 66 years of marriage and raised five children: Faye Jarvis, Diane Whitener, Donna Scott, Gene Judd, and Leon Judd. Wanda passed away in 2024, but the life and love they built together remain a treasured part of their family's story.

Stanley raised his five children on the river, teaching them much more than how to fish. He taught them how to work, how to take care of themselves, how to do things with their own hands, and how to appreciate the simple things in life. He gave his children the kind of knowledge and independence that stays with them forever. Some of their most precious memories were made together on the river, where their Daddy was their teacher, protector, and biggest example.

Stanley and Shorty also ran the NipSip Bar and Campground for many years, creating a place where people could come together, have a good time, and make memories. Stanley loved cooking for people and was always ready to barbecue or fry fish for whoever came around. If you showed up, there was a good chance you were going to get fed-and probably leave with a story to tell.

And Stanley certainly knew how to make people laugh. If anyone asked him his name, he had his own unforgettable answer:

"Big Sam from Birmingham, and don't give a damn."

That was Stanley-funny, independent, hardworking, loving, and completely his own person. There truly was nobody quite like him.

He is preceded in death by his grandchildren: Sherry Judd, Misty Whitener; son-in-law: Herbert Whitener.

Stanley leaves behind his five children, Faye (Bill) Jarvis, Diane Whitener (Mike), Donna (Steve) Scott, Gene (Joyce) Judd, and Leon (Angie) Judd; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many family members and friends who love him dearly.

His greatest legacy is the family he raised, the lessons he taught, and the countless memories he created. The river, the fishing, the food, the laughter, and the stories will forever carry a piece of him.

Stanley Leon Judd is one of a kind-and there will never be another Big Sam.

A funeral service will be held at 7 p.m., on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in the Chapel of Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services with the Rev. David Moore and the Rev. James Staton officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 - 7 p.m., prior to the service.

Interment will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, in the Beta Cemetery with
John Judd, Dusty Whitener, Cody Judd, Zac Cofer, Larry Rogers, Kip Rogers, Spanky Colbaugh, Dewayne Hooker serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Jeff Charles, Jeff Judd, and Red Davis.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to caregiver Lisa Hooker and Hospice of Chattanooga for the compassionate care provided to Stanley.

Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the Judd family.