Dr. Stancil Handley

Dr. Phillip Stancil Handley, age 76, passed away November 19, 2025, at Compassus Hospice Care in Birmingham, AL.  He was born May 19, 1949, to Loyd and Elda Miller Handley.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Loyd Mitchell Handley.  He’s a graduate of Thompson High School Class of 1967.  

In 1969, Stancil joined the U.S. Army but due to an injury was sent to Walter Reed Army Medical Center where he was given the opportunity to work in their research lab and received commendation and was instrumental in isolating RNA and TRNA.  This encouraged him to go on to college.  In 1979 he received his B.S. in Physiological Optics from University of Alabama of Birmingham where he continued to get his Doctorate of Optometry.  He began his private practice with Total Vision Care in 1979.  He went on to practice optometry for 45 years in multiple locations in the state including Montgomery, Alabaster, and Columbiana.  

Many know him as “Mayor Handley” from Columbiana for 8 years, founder of the annual Cowboy Day and bringing the Trolley to fruition for city transit.

Community and making people and his town a better place was important.  He was involved in many organizations which include, President of the Greater Birmingham Optometric Association, President of Shelby County Cattlemen’s Association, Chairman of Sight Saver America and board member What Would Bob Do, board member of Sight Savers Alabama, board member of Shelby County Arts Council.  

Some of his interests include maintaining his farm and animals.  He was a cowboy and accomplished horseman who loved his horses, rolling hay, being on his tractor and skid steer.  He also loved reading, telling stories, always had a joke and loved to eat sweets.  

Stancil is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Moody Handley, brother, Lindsay Handley (Kathy); sister in law, Sue Handley; children, Philding Handley (Shanna) and KC Handley (Keyla); stepdaughters, Frankie Stroud and Berkeley Smith; stepson, Branson Smith;  grandchildren, Slade Handley, Wyatt Handley, Marley Kate Handley and Abby Lane Handley; nieces, Brandy Tuech (Jeff), Rachel Morris, nephew, Chris Handley (Angie).  He is also survived by a host of other nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and his eye patients who will all miss him dearly.  

Some may remember a few of his favorite sayings which include, “If you’re gonna be dumb you gotta be tough” and “Don’t lose sight of the big picture”.

In lieu of flowers,  the family asked for donations to be made to the Shelby County Arts Council (shelbycountyartscouncil.com) or Sight Savers America (sightsaversamerica.org).