Stuart Ryland Acors Jr (78) – a man of faith, integrity and inspiration, with a love for living life, was peacefully received into the arms of Jesus, at home in Ruther Glen, Virginia, on September 21, 2025 at 12:02pm.

 

On August 3^rd, Stuart enjoyed time at home with his wife working out in the yard, driving his golf cart and watching one of his favorite pastimes – racing! On Monday August 4^th at a doctor appointment, something seemed “off” and at the urging of the doctor, Stuart went to the ER to be checked out… Stuart’s body presented challenge after challenge over the month, his body giving in to a debilitating disease called Dementia. On September 3^rd, Stuart’s request to go “home” to be with his family, hummingbirds and his flamingo Fiona was made possible.

 

Over the next 19 days, friends and family came by sharing story after story, bringing both laughter and tears, of the adventures that were shared and testimony after testimony of how Stuart has impacted their life…. Over those 19 days, there was a consistent truth throughout all that was shared – Stuart has left a legacy that will not be forgotten!

 

Stuart was a devoted husband, who strived daily to be the Godly leader, friend and helpmate his beautiful bride, Sally Acors, needed, wanted and deserved. He was a loving father to his son Chris Acors and “Bonus” daughters Vicki Rankin (Johnny) and Crystal Hurley – a father who offered encouraging words, Godly wisdom, car advice, unconditional love and more. Through their three children, Stuart is blessed to have 9 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren all of whom he treasured.

 

Stuart was born December 3^rd, 1946 and from a very young age he fell in love with the excitement of racing, winning his first race at the age of 14. He loved racing – from building the engines, to sitting in the driver’s seat, Stuart’s passion for the sport ignited that passion in others who will now carry on his legacy…. Stuart’s passion for racing didn’t stop at the sport – he loved to teach! From how to build an engine, to maximizing speed, to maintaining the car and all other tips and tricks he learned over the years, Stuart is described as being an exceptional engine builder who is a patient teacher, persistent in doing all things with honor, excellence and integrity – never taking shortcuts! He was humbled and honored to teach those God placed on his path and now those students will carry on the legacy he has instilled in them…

 

Stuart’s love for Fords ONLY wasn’t exclusively for racing – for many years he worked as Shop Foreman at Richmond Ford and when his “to be” wife asked what car she should get, she rephrased when he didn’t respond – “What car would you like to work on?” to which he replied, “A Ford!”

 

Stuart was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was marked by love, compassion and unwavering faith in God… Stuart had a heart to serve others – he was a volunteer member of the Frog Level Fire Department, head Deacon at Salem Baptist Church and he enjoyed serving his friends and family whenever he had the opportunity to be a blessing! Stuart’s selflessness, warmth, generosity, loving and supportive spirit will be remembered forever.

 

Stuart loved Hershey ice cream, the color purple, flamingos, classic cars, racing, Jesus, his wife and family, fishing, adventuring on back roads, hot dogs, crabs (especially crab cakes) trips to Nags Head, visiting family and exploring New England (especially Franconia Notch!), serving others – Stuart loved LIVING!

 

Although Stuart’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. We must choose to remember him for the way he lived life and the profound impact that his life had on those that had the honor of knowing him. His memory is a blessing and we will carry forth his legacy of integrity, kindness, love and compassion in all that we do!

 

“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” — Proverbs 22:1

The writer of this proverb is reminding us that if you measure your life only by the riches you can gain, then you will be very disappointed. Rather, we should major in character — because a good name will follow you for a lifetime, even after the Lord calls you to your Heavenly home! Stuart’s life exemplified this Proverb!

 

In lieu of flowers, Stuart had requested that donations be sent to Through His Eyes ministry (a ministry he supported – physically & financially). The money raised will go towards touching hearts, seeing lives changed and carrying on one of his greatest missions – bringing the lost and hurting to Jesus! He wanted everyone to know the JOY that comes with having Jesus in your heart! He wanted everyone to know the love that comes with being part of a family where love abounds! Donations may be made using:

♡ CashApp – https://cash.app/$thevickibuffington

♡ PayPal – https://Paypal.me/ThroughHisEyes

♡ Zelle – please see the QR code below 

 

Forever Remembered

Forever Missed

       ~~~~~~

12.3.46 – 9.21.25

 

There will be a Celebration of Life at the family’s home in Ruther Glen, Va., in November – date TBD. Stuart wants his race car on display and therefore we must choose the date based on the weather. The details will be forth coming…