Mark Milton Stubbs, life-long resident of Gainesville, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 30th at the age of 64. To his family and friends, Mark was affectionately known as Superman for his tenacious fight with brain tumors for over 28 years. His positive spirit, strong determination, and “can do attitude” was a marvel for all to witness in his ongoing medical challenges over the many years. Yet, despite his struggles, he had a life well-lived.
Throughout his life Mark was an animal lover, avid fisherman, and sports enthusiasts for not only the Gators but for both of his son’s sporting events and other family members and friends’ activities. More importantly, he was a good husband, a loving, caring father to two sons, a devoted son himself, and a loyal friend to countless others.
Mark was born February 18, 1958, in Gainesville, Florida to parents Milton and Betty Rose Stubbs, and he graduated from Oak Hall High School in 1976. He is preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his mother Betty Rose (BR) Stubbs, his wife Tracy Boling Stubbs, their sons, Darby Stubbs and Dallas Stubbs, his brother Scott Stubbs and wife Jana, and many nieces and nephews.
Mark worked for Mark Hurm & Company, LLC for over 15 years, and earlier in his career, he also worked for Mirage Manufacturing and Boat Builders. In addition to his love of friends and family, Mark was an Eagle Scout, a devoted member of the Gators Boosters for over 40 years, a Member of the Gainesville Offshore Fishing Club (President 1990), and a volunteer extraordinaire helping for over 30 years set up the magnificent Christmas tree at the Thomas Center, helping with JJ Finley( Parker) Gator football parking and GHS Football concessions. His friendly personality and his gift of easy conversations was the essence of who he was. Mark was the ultimate “helper” to anyone in need. He genuinely cared about people and was always willing to lend a hand. He was a best friend to many.
Mark had a life full of adventures and travel. Over the years he accumulated countless memories of good times travelling to Hope Town Bahamas, the Florida Keys, snow skiing, attending Gator Games, endless fishing trips with sons and friends, and fun celebrations at the family homes in Cowpen Lake or Cedar Key all while being surrounded by a large close-knit tribe of beloved family members and friends that radiated outward over different generations. He will be greatly missed by many people.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the staff at Tampa General Hospital for Mark’s amazing care over the past 10 years during all his many surgeries. A special extension of appreciation goes to his amazing team of doctors Dr. Harry VanLoveren and Dr. Michael Harrington. All the staff at Tampa General treated the whole Stubbs tribe like family and royalty.
There will be a Celebration of Life service held on Thursday, June 2, 2022, at 11:00 A.M. at Valley View 26001 NW 122nd Street, Alachua, FL 32615. To keep with Mark’s easy-going nature and his passion for the Gators, the family has asked that all those attending the Celebration of Life to please dress in Orange & Blue.
Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Milam Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please donate in honor of Mark to The Ronald McDonald House. Donations may be made on line at www.RMHCNCF.org or mailed to Ronald McDonald House Charities NCF at 1600 SW 14th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608.
