Mr Stoney, who was a member and past president of the Bega RSL sub-branch, died on April 20 at his home in Bega.

Mr Stoney was born at Wollongong on May 8, 1935 and would have turned 80 next month.

He enlisted in the RAAF on January 12, 1954 and after 12 years of service was discharged on January 11, 1966.

In this time he was posted overseas to Malaya from September 1961 to December 1963.

His RAAF trade was mechanical transport fitter and he attained the rank of Leading Aircraftman.

For his services he was awarded the Australian Service medal 1945-1975 with clasp "Thailand" for service at the Royal Thai Airforce Base, Ubon, from May 1962 to August 1968.

Mr Stoney was a local Legatee as well as an active member of the Bega RSL.

It was during his presidency he became ill, but with the support of the sub-branch members he fulfilled his duties as president for the full term.

Current Bega sub-branch president Tom Blake said Mr Stoney was hoping to make it to this year's centenary commemoration.

"He tried his best to keep himself going to Anzac Day but just failed to do it," he said.

Mr Blake described Mr Stoney as a "very kind and pleasant gentleman".

"Barry believed in telling things straight out and wouldn't go behind your back,” Mr Blake said. 

"He will be sadly missed by members of the RSL."

Mr Stoney was very well known in the district.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 30 at 2pm at the Bega RSL sub-branch house in Upper St, Bega.

All are welcome to attend.

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