Pauline Stone

Pauline Stone, a lifelong resident of Hale County, passed away at her home in Abernathy, Texas, March 8, 2026 - a date that would have marked her late husband's 98th birthday. She was born on June 7, 1933, to Robert Ashley and Clora Beatrice (Sanderson) Lutrick, on the Lutrick farm near Abernathy. Her life was a testament to her steadfast dedication to her family and faith, which defined her character and the legacy she leaves behind.

A proud graduate of Abernathy High School in 1950, Pauline furthered her education by earning a Bachelor's degree from West Texas College in Canyon, Texas, in 1954. She also obtained various accreditations at Texas Tech University, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning. Pauline dedicated a significant portion of her professional life to education, serving with distinction in the Abernathy Independent School District from 1985 until her retirement in 2000. She was an active member of the Abernathy Classroom Teachers and the Texas Retired Teachers Association. Her impact on the lives of countless children and families will be remembered fondly by those whose lives she touched.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Pauline was an active and devoted member of the First United Methodist Church, now Abernathy United. She served on numerous committees and boards, demonstrating her commitment to her faith and community. Pauline was known for her warmth and generosity, baking countless dozens of cookies for Vacation Bible School, children's choir, and Wednesday night activities, bringing comfort and joy to many.

She and her husband shared a deep interest in history and genealogy, often traveling together to cemeteries and courthouses in search of family records. She was an active member of the Mary McCoy-Baines Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Hale County Historical Commission, and the Abernathy Order of the Eastern Star.

Pauline was married to A. L. Stone, Jr., who predeceased her on November 17, 2010. Together, they created a loving family that expanded to include four children: JoAnn Shipman and her husband Roddy of Guthrie, TX; Don Stone and his wife DiAnn of Abernathy, TX; Susan McDorman and her husband Jeff of Wimberly, TX; and Trey Stone and wife Rebecca Sutorius Hassel of Katy, TX. Pauline's legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Steven and Michelle Stone, Joli and Nick Martin, Dustin and Stefanie Stone, Shaley and Drew Assinesi, Krissy Shipman and fiancé Bradley Burkett, Gaston and Summer McDorman, Drew and Whitney McDorman, Brock and Storie McDorman, and Avery Stone. Her great-grandchildren—Case, Carly, Cole, Christian, Gabby, Manual, Hannah and Darial Stone, Rylee White, Maddox, Nash, Grant Martin, Archie Assinesi, Olivia, Rhyan, and Zushi McDorman—were a constant source of joy in her life. Pauline is also survived by a sister-in-law, Billie Grimsley of Abernathy.

Pauline is remembered as a servant to her family and church, embodying a conservative and steadfast spirit that emphasized sacrifice for the benefit of her children. Her influence has created a lasting positive imprint on all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by 2 brothers, Sidney Lutrick and Travis Lutrick and a sister, Ruth Lutrick Auge.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Abell Funeral Home in Abernathy, TX. The funeral service will take place the following day, Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Abernathy United Church, located at 704 Avenue D, Abernathy, TX. Services are under the direction of Abell Funeral Home & Flower Shop of Abernathy.

The family suggests memorials be sent to the Strip Cemetery, Abernathy Ex-Students or to Abernathy United.

Pauline's life was rich with love and service, and she will be profoundly missed by her family and friends, who carry forward her spirit of kindness and dedication.