Gaines B. (G.B) Stanley Sr.
Eleven years ago, the Stanley Reading Room on the top floor of the ACU Library was made possible through a generous gift by Gaines B. Stanley Jr, in honor of his father, Gaines B. (G.B) Stanley Sr, (’50), who preached in several churches in Texas, Colorado, and California, until his passing in 2011. The Reading Room remains a powerful testimony to the legacy of the ministry of G.B. and his wife, Jean.
A recent trip to ACU by members of the Stanley family provided a welcome opportunity for a visit with staff and friends of the ACU library. We’re grateful to Mrs. Judy Helvey, daughter of G.B and Jean, for sharing this news: “After Dad’s death, Mom moved to Cypress, TX in July of 2013 to live closer to us. During that time she was able to rekindle several of the friendships from their earliest days in Texas. Among those was Ken Rich whose wife Virginia had also passed away in 2011. These two couples met at ACC in 1947 after both men returned from the war. They lived in the same barracks and shared many wonderful adventures. They continued to remain lifelong friends even though their lives took them in different directions. Once these two could get reacquainted, it didn’t take long for them to see the blessing of being together. They were married June 20, 2015 and now live in Kerrville, TX. Ken was 92 in February and Mom will be 89 in May and they continue to be active and enjoy their life together.”
Jean offered this reflection on the meaning of the Stanley Reading Room: “Books were such a big part of GB’s life!
He was at his happiest when he had a new book to read! He loved preaching, but he also loved teaching at the School of Evangelism and being able to train and instruct young preachers on how to be good Bible students. He talked often about having his books donated to ACU for others to use, but he never imagined that Gaines would create such a wonderful reading room for so many to enjoy! He was so thankful and excited that the students would be able to benefit from such a great collection of books!”
The Stanley theology collection and reading room support ACU students and faculty every day, and we continue to honor and be grateful for the generosity and legacy that made possible this beautiful and functional gift. You’re invited to visit the library’s new exhibition of artifacts from the ministry of G.B. Stanley Sr., including notes for sermons that were recorded and now available online at www.thelessonisyours.com.