John “Matthew” Stone, 51, of Mineral Springs, Ark., affectionately know as “Big John” or “Chew” to his close friends, passed away on Monday, Sept. 15, 2025. He was born on Sept. 4, 1974, in Longview, Texas, to Larry J. and Patricia Stone.
Matthew was a 1992 graduate of Nashville High School. In his early years he worked with his father at NRS Consulting Engineers, before starting his own business, MS Auto Sales.
Matthew enjoyed all outdoor activities, but his favorite was deer season when he got to hang out with his buddies, run dogs, and enjoy life. He was truly a people person. He was happiest when he was spending time with his wide circle of friends. He loved
to cook, and fire up the grill or smoker. His favorite place to be was in his pool house watching ballgames, telling stories, entertaining, and “trying” to karaoke.
Matthew is proceeded in death by his father, Larry J. Stone, and his dear friend Carroll Powell.
He leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Mandi Gaddis Stone, and one son, Connor Stone of Mineral Springs, Ark., his mother, Patricia Stone of Hot Springs, Ark., one brother, Jeremy and wife Amy, of Hot Springs, Ark., one nephew, Jackson Stone, one niece, Reagan Stone, his father-in-law, Robert Gaddis of Mineral Springs, Ark., along with numerous close friends who were like brothers to him and will miss him dearly.
Matthew loved his family more than anything in this world. He met the love of his life, Mandi in 1998 and they were married Feb. 26, 2000. He loved Mandi with all his heart and for over 25 years built a life with his best friend.
If you ever asked Matthew when the best day of his life was, he would tell you Jan. 17, 2003. This was the day his son, Connor, was born. From the first moment he laid eyes on Connor his life changed. Matthew loved to spend time with his son, and loved him more than life itself.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Bluff Springs Cemetery in Mineral Springs, Ark. The family will greet visitors 30 minutes prior to the service under the pavilion beside Bluff Springs Church.
