IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Bernard "Ben" Dettinger

Bernard "Ben" Dettinger Stabley Profile Photo

Stabley

December 13, 1958 – January 20, 2026

Obituary

Bernard "Ben" Stabley, III, 67, of Lititz, passed away at Lancaster General Hospital on January 20, 2026. Born in Bridgeton, NJ to Bernard and Hillis (McKamey) Stabley, Jr., he was the loving husband of Patricia S. (Donahay) Stabley.

Ben graduated from Maryville College in Maryville, Tennessee, in 1981 with a degree in Business Administration. He entered the medical administration field where he worked for more than 30 years.

Ben was a man who found joy in music, family, and the simple pleasures of life. A talented musician, he loved playing gigs, hosting jam sessions with friends, and building and repairing guitars. His favorite guitarist was Joe Bonamassa, and he especially enjoyed listening to the live version of “Mountain Time.” Music was not just a hobby for Bernard but a part of who he was and something he loved sharing with others.

He was also a devoted sports fan and could often be found cheering on the Phillies and Flyers, especially when he was able to watch games alongside his sons. Ben was a proud and loving grandfather to his six grandchildren, a role he cherished deeply.

After a long day working in the yard, he enjoyed unwinding with a pint of Guinness and a good cigar. He valued loyalty and connection, maintaining close friendships from childhood and making time throughout the years to visit, laugh, and catch up with those who had known him longest.

Ben was known for his sarcastic sense of humor and his ability to make an entire room laugh. Each year, he looked forward to celebrating his birthday with a big slice of chocolate pound cake. More than anything, he will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, and the way he brought people together through music and love.

Ben was a member of Lititz United Methodist Church, where he served as part of the worship team.

In addition to his wife, Ben is survived his children, Melissa Bragg (Joe), Bernard Stabley, IV (Amy), Courtney Stabley, and Calista White (Benjamin); his cherished grandchildren, Victoria, Caleb, Logan, Aveleen, and Jasper Bragg, and Ari Morse; his mother, Hillis Stabley; his sisters, Gray Carmichael (Rob) and Marcy Miller, along with their children. He was preceded in death by his father, Bernard Stabley, Jr.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date in the spring.

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