John Charles Stewart  1945-2023

John Charles Stewart passed away peacefully on Aug. 31, 2023 at age 78. John was born on Feb. 23, 1945, in Star City, Ark. and was raised by his grandparents, Mary Ellen Robinson and Charles Alvin Robinson. 

John’s journey in life was one of dedicated work and unwavering commitment. He served his country as a proud member of the Army National Guard. After his honorable service, John became a self-employed contractor, with a passion for remodeling houses. His attention to detail and craftsmanship were evident in every project he undertook. Throughout his career, he took great pride in his work and furthering his knowledge. In his later years, he surprised his daughters by becoming an apprentice electrician. 

John resided in San Diego, Calif. for 27 years before settling in Mineola in 2012. On Feb. 11, 1972 he married Sandra Lee Stewart, and together they shared a loving marriage for over five decades.

John had a deep appreciation for the world of motorsports. He found joy in attending tractor pulls and drag races, even participating in drag races himself during the 1980s. His prized possessions were his Vega and 1957 Chevy Nomad, both meticulously maintained and emblematic of his love for classic cars.

Beyond his work and hobbies, John had a passion for antiquing. He also enjoyed working on cars, painting them and performing mechanical repairs.

Just a few months before his passing, John fulfilled a cherished item on his bucket list. In July 2023, he embarked on a journey, riding the train to San Diego and back, reliving memories and creating new ones.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Lee Stewart; grandparents, Mary Ellen and Charles Alvin Robinson; and mother, Retha Virginia Robinson Moyers.

John Charles Stewart will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his granddaughter and great-granddaughter, Alexis Stewart and Charlotte Abbott; daughter, Stephanie Young and husband Gary of Fort Worth, and their children, Saxon Munoz, Bryan Munoz and Tyler Young; and his daughter, Kimberli Stewart of Quitman. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of John to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, lungcancerresarchfoundation.org.