Staff Sergeant Bernard Raymond “Geronimo” Stine, U.S. Army (Ret.), of Madison, Alabama, died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at age 74.

Born on March 2nd, 1952, in Pennsylvania, Bernard was the son of the late Raymond Stine and Donna Jean Liegey. He devoted much of his life to serving his country and caring for those around him.

A proud Vietnam veteran, Bernard served with the 664th Ordnance Company, performing the demanding work necessary to keep his fellow soldiers equipped and prepared. He later continued his military career with Support Company, 1st Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), where he served for 23 years before retiring as a respected senior noncommissioned officer and Jumpmaster.

Throughout his service with the 20th Special Forces Group, Bernard lived by the Special Forces motto, De Oppresso Liber—“To Free the Oppressed.” As a Jumpmaster, he was entrusted with the lives and safety of his fellow paratroopers. He understood that every successful mission depended upon the dedication of the soldiers responsible for logistics, communications, preparation, and leadership. Bernard was one of those dependable leaders who refused to let his people down.

The men who served alongside him knew him affectionately as “Geronimo,” a fitting name for a soldier whose airborne spirit remained with him throughout his life. Whether on the drop zone, downrange, or standing at a friend’s front door, he could be counted upon to show up when it mattered most.

His military awards and qualifications included the Master Parachutist Badge, Jumpmaster qualification, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and other decorations earned throughout his distinguished career. However, his greatest military legacy will be found in the soldiers he trained, mentored, encouraged, and helped return safely home.

Bernard carried the values of duty, loyalty, and selfless service into his life in Madison. He was especially well known for making his rounds every Christmas Eve and delivering gifts to his friends. The gift itself was never the most important part. It might have been smoked meat from his cooker, a coin, a story, a handshake, or simply a personal visit to make sure someone was doing well. Each December 24 became his own special mission: take care of your people and make sure no one is forgotten. If you were on Geronimo’s list, you stayed on it.

He also treasured the friendship and fellowship of the men with whom he served, including members of the 1st Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group, and the Special Forces community. His standing order in life was simple: “Take care of your people. Then check again.”

Bernard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beverly Stine; his parents, Raymond Stine and Donna Jean Liegey; and his brother, Michael Stine.

He is survived by his sister, Jennifer Scott of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; niece, Doni Reh; brother, Daniel Sheets of South Carolina; nieces, Tonya DePatie, Michelle Braunstein, and Heather Sheets; stepchildren, Christa Yvonne Watson, David Scott Randall, and step-grandson Hayden Watson and other extended family members. Although Bernard and Beverly had no children of their own, he leaves behind a generation of soldiers, friends, and loved ones who became family through the loyalty, guidance, and kindness he freely gave.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Berryhill Funeral Home from 10:00 to 12:00 pm. A graveside service will follow at Valhalla Memory Gardens at 12:30 pm, with Rev. LZ Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Vietnam Veterans of America, or the 20th Special Forces Group Association.

Those wishing to honor Geronimo’s memory are also encouraged to follow his example and make your rounds this Christmas Eve.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Berryhill Funeral Home from 10:00 to 12:00 pm. A graveside service will follow at Valhalla Memory Gardens at 12:30 pm, with Rev. LZ Johnson.

Berryhill Funeral Home is assisting the family.