Byron A. Stewart

It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Byron Adolphus Stewart, who was born on October 12, 1934, in Barbados to Byron Dacosta Stewart and Gertrude Stewart. Byron was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend whose kindness, humor, and gentle spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Byron pursued higher education at Queensborough Community College and went on to build a successful career with The Dreyfus Corporation and The Coca-Cola Bottling Company of New York.

He is lovingly survived by his wife of 63 years, Shirley Stewart; his children, Sharyn Young (Terrence), Darryl Stewart, and Angela Hayes (Nathaniel); and his cherished grandchildren, Grant Young, Nathaniel Hayes III, Cecilia Stewart, Najee Hayes, and Frey Mathews. He also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Byron was preceded in death by his brother, Edmund Stewart, his sister Shirley Marshall and Keewren Stewart.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Byron had a passion for cricket, tennis, and golf. He spent many years playing cricket with the Melbourne Cricket Club in Brooklyn, New York, and enjoyed playing tennis in parks throughout Queens. However, nothing captured his heart quite like cricket. His dedication to the sport led him to partner with the Police Athletic League, where he helped establish a junior cricket program to mentor and inspire young athletes.

In recognition of his professional accomplishments and community impact, Byron was honored in 1991 with the National Salute to Black Achievers in Industry Award.

Faith was a cornerstone of Byron's life. Having accepted Christ at an early age, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and was a faithful member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Palm Coast, Florida.

Byron lived a life defined by compassion, generosity, and service to others. He was affectionately known as the "cool uncle" and often served as a father figure, mentor, and trusted confidant. He was a dedicated family man who never missed a sporting event, school performance, award ceremony, wedding, or graduation. Long before it had a name, Byron was the carpool parent, always willing to help wherever he was needed.

His home was a gathering place for family, and neighborhoods’ kids. Whether opening his basement for neighborhood get-togethers, offering words of wisdom, or bringing laughter to every occasion, Byron's presence made people feel welcome and valued. His nieces and nephews treasured him, his friends leaned on him, and his grandchildren sought his advice, knowing they would always receive understanding without judgment.

Above all his accomplishments, Byron's greatest pride and deepest joy was his marriage to his beloved wife, Shirley. For 63 years, they shared a remarkable bond built on love and devotion. While words cannot fully express the depth of Byron's love for Shirley, it was evident in the life they built together and, in the care, they gave one another. Shirley lovingly cared for Byron every day until the very end, a testament to the enduring love they shared.

Though Byron will be deeply missed, his legacy of faith, family, kindness, laughter, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23