Dr. William James Stone earned a bachelor’s degree om Boston University and went on to receive his master’s degree from Florida State University. William’s academic pursuits culminated with a doctoral degree om the University of California, Berkeley—a testament to his commitment to scholarship and excellence.

Dr. Stone began his distinguished academic career in 1965 as an assistant professor at the University of Denver, but it was at Arizona State University that he found his professional home om 1967 until his retirement in 2007. As a transformative leader, his contributions at ASU were vast: department chair, director of the Human Performance Lab, and a beloved professor to countless students. He spearheaded Arizona’s first cardiac rehabilitation program at a time when such initiatives were rare across North America, blazed a trail in physical activity and aging research, and developed one of the earliest employee fitness programs for Salt River Project (SRP) in the 1970s. 

Bill’s multifaceted career included consultancies for professional sports organizations such as the Phoenix Suns—an experience he cherished and his family enjoyed immensely. He consulted with community organizations such as the YMCA and Jewish Community Center. He led the charge on ASU’s Polytechnic campus, redesigning curriculum, launching a new doctoral program, revitalizing facilities, and nurturing a thriving “health cluster” of related disciplines. His leadership contributed to skyrocketing enrollments and set new standards for academic and community excellence.

A prolific scholar, Dr. Stone authored or co-authored books, chapters, and numerous research articles focused on health, wellness, and human performance. His transformative impact reached beyond research and writing—he mentored scores of undergraduate and graduate students. Dr. Stone’s achievements were recognized widely: he was named Supervisor of the Year, Distinguished Teacher, Scholar of the Year om the Southwest District of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, & Dance (AAHPERD), and was the recipient of the prestigious AAHPERD Honor Award at state, regional, and national levels. Yet, perhaps his greatest legacy was the enduring encouragement, wisdom, and support he gave to his colleagues, students, family and friends – many of whom have since risen to prominence in their own right.

William is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Elaine Stone, his daughter, his son and two grandchildren. 

Those seeking to honor Dr. Stone’s lifelong commitment to learning, wellness and cardiovascular health are encouraged to donate to the William J. Stone Memorial Fund: 

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/

WILLIAM YMCA OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY https://give.classy.org/williamstone