2022 Old King Coal Denzile Stubblefield

Our 2022 Old King Coal is a veteran of the United States Navy serving from 1960-1064. His coal mining career began in 1967 as an underground laborer at Freeman United Coal mine #5 in Logan. From 1968 to 1977 he worked at Freeman United Coal Company mine #6 near Waltonville. Over his 29 year career in the mines, he held many positions such as roof bolter, continuous mine operator and repairman. He attended Freeman repair school where he learned hydraulics, electrical repair, cutting and welding. He also worked as an underground repairman, mobile equipment surface operator and plant repairman at Old Ben mine #25 near West Frankfort from 1977 to 1994. During his career he was often recognized by management for his extra effort and quality of work. One former manager of maintenance at Old Ben #25 stated that his workmanship was as good as he had seen in the industry. The same manager stated it was common to find Stubblefield performing regular maintenance on equipment without being asked. He said, “Many times we take men like Denzile for granted.  He is never in the office, never creates problems, shows up for work and does his job to the best of his ability”. Since retiring, Denzile enjoys fixing up riding lawn mowers and listening to blues music. Besides his daughter Tracey and son Ricky, he has two granddaughters, Tabitha and Kristal, a grandson Rick, 1 great grandson and 2 great granddaughters. Congratulations to Denzile Stubblefield, our 2022 Old King Coal.