Elizabeth Smith Stewart, a faithful, adventurous, and sweet soul, passed away on January 3, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on March 25, 1934, Elizabeth lived a life marked by deep faith, curiosity, kindness, and joy, and was a cherished resident of Cullman, Alabama.
Elizabeth is survived by her loving husband, Warren S. Stewart, Jr.; her devoted daughters, Sharon Stewart Fenstermaker and Melinda Stewart Harbison; and her son, Warren Sterling Stewart III. She is also survived by her beloved grandson, Michael Sterling Harbison, and her brother, Larry Joe Smith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Homer and Ruth Gable Smith.
Elizabeth graduated from J.B. Pennington High School and the University of Alabama, where she proudly served on the university’s first basketball cheerleading squad and remained a lifelong Alabama football fan. She put her business degree to good use throughout her varied career, serving as a financial secretary at First Baptist Church Atlanta and later as a Social Security court reporter among many other roles. It was at First Baptist Church Atlanta that she met and married her husband, Warren.
A devoted mother and grandmother, Elizabeth dearly loved her church communities and formed lifelong friendships at First Baptist Church Atlanta and First Baptist Church Cullman. She was a well-loved and respected Sunday School teacher whose faith and example touched many. Elizabeth loved to travel, especially to the beach, and she found joy in cooking, reading, and sharing her sharp sense of humor. A dedicated recycler, animal lover (particularly of cats), and fashion enthusiast inspired by her seamstress mother, Elizabeth embraced life with enthusiasm and care. Above all, she adored her grandson and delighted in every moment with her family.
Elizabeth was truly a force of nature who lived a beautiful life of faith, leaving a legacy of love and a standard worth emulating.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 8, from 2PM at Moss Service Funeral Home in Cullman, Alabama. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Food Ministry at First Baptist Church Cullman.
