On January 10, 2024, Hamilton lost a cherished member of its community with the passing of James Edward Stewart Jr. at the age of 82. His life, filled with love, resilience, and a deep connection to family and friends, leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. Born to James Stewart Sr. and Beatrice Gore Stewart, James Jr. was a beacon of strength and kindness from the very beginning. His roots in Hamilton ran deep, and he became an integral part of the community, touching the lives of many. As news of his passing spread, a collective sense of loss enveloped the town, but it was accompanied by a flood of memories and gratitude for the impact he had on those who knew him.
Visitation to celebrate the life of James Edward Stewart Jr. will be held on Sunday, January 21, 2024, starting at 12:00, with the service commencing at 1:00 at Barnesville Church. The echoes of shared stories and shared sorrows will fill the air as friends and family come together to pay their respects to a man who played a significant role in their lives. Following the service, a poignant journey to Rocky Grove Cemetery will take place, where James Jr. will find his final resting place. The hallowed grounds of Rocky Grove Cemetery will be a serene tribute to a life well-lived, surrounded by the embrace of nature and the memories of those who held him dear.
James Jr. is survived by a loving family that was his pride and joy. His children, Jennifer (Joe) Stewart, Ricky (Marsha) Nelson, Rosetta Stewart, and Carolyn Meadows, share the grief of his loss while cherishing the many moments of joy, laughter, and love he brought into their lives. His sister, Connie Dean Benton, stands as a pillar of strength, offering comfort and support during this challenging time. The legacy of James Jr. extends to the next generation, as he leaves behind a lineage of love. Grandchildren Richard Allen (Adrain) Stewart, Rosilyn Meadows, Candiss Stewart, Tykisha Stewart, and Alexya Nelson were not just recipients of his affection but witnesses to the values he held dear. The laughter of great-grandchildren Kimbrionna Coker, Kalyn Stowe, Cameron Oliver, Brennan Stewart, Kionna Stowe, Jer’Travis Stowe, Ja’Bria Stewart, and Emma Stewart echoed through his home, creating a tapestry of memories that will forever bind them together.
In the vast circle of family, James Jr. was blessed with great-great-grandchildren Tahiry Hubbard and Sekani Turner, a testament to the enduring love that transcends generations. Their laughter and innocence served as a reminder of the beauty of life and the interconnectedness of family ties.
As the community mourns the loss of James Jr., they also reflect on the cherished memories he created with his extended family, including a host of nieces, nephews, and countless friends. His warm smile, genuine kindness, and unwavering support will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of calling him family or friend.
In the tapestry of James Edward Stewart Jr.’s life, there are threads of resilience, love, and an unyielding commitment to family and community. Preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Beatrice Gore Stewart, and siblings Murray Stewart, Bennie Stewart, Flora Lathan, and Wilda Brown, he now joins them in eternal peace. The memory of his grandson, Brandon Stewart, serves as a poignant reminder of the bittersweet nature of life, where loss is felt deeply but love endures.
The Stewart family would like to express their gratitude to all who have offered support during this difficult time. The outpouring of love and sympathy serves as a testament to the profound impact James Edward Stewart Jr. had on the lives of those around him. In the midst of sorrow, there is a collective understanding that his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.
