Career
Born in Lincoln County, Kansas, Stanley was a sergeant in the United States Army during World War I, from 1918 to 1919 and a Fireman, First Class in the United States Navy from 1921 to 1925. He was a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army during World World War II, from 1941 to 1945 returning to private practice in Kansas City from 1945 to 1958. Stanley was confirmed by the United States Senate on July 3, receiving his commission on July 7.
He served as chief judge from 1961 to 1971, assuming senior status on April 1, 1971.
Stanley served in that capacity until his death, in Leavenworth, Kansas on January 27, 2001.