Donald Archibald Stewart

Donald A. Stewart passed away on April 19, 2022. The son of John J. and Grace M. Stewart, he was born in Passaic, N.J. and attended Passaic High School before furthering his education by obtaining his degree from Wagner College. He then enlisted in the Army and served as an intelligence analyst and performed other duties in the field of Operations with the US Army Security Agency in the European Theater. Thereafter, he obtained his law degree at Samford University and practiced for a year in Alabama before moving to Sarasota where he continued his law career for thirty years before retiring in 2001.

Don was involved in numerous activities during his life. During his college days he developed a lasting appreciation for literature, writing, and art. Having served on the staff of his college paper as well as editor of his college yearbook, he was also named the “Belles Lettres” award winner for poetry by the Staten Island Federation of Poetry and continued to write ditties and play with words for enjoyment. He was an active member of the Sarasota Jaycees and also served on the Board of the Sarasota Little League for many years. He liked to play with colors and enjoyed creating cartoon paintings while a member of the Artists of Palmer Ranch. He also actively served on the Board of Directors of the Beat After Beat Heart Foundation affiliated with Tampa General Hospital while also enjoying membership with the Shepherding Deacons of Church of the Palms. His comment on the status of his life was simply that, “It was fun and enjoyable!” He also expressed concern for the country’s future by citing the Army Security Agency creed: “Semper Vigiles” meaning to be vigilant always.

Don leaves behind the greatest “treasure” of his life: his family. He says goodbye to Sandra, “the best wife a guy could ever have” and expresses his eternal love for her in writing this note of departure. Our marriage was a blend of joy, happiness, and togetherness. I will also miss my wonderful and successful son, Donald Gregory Stewart (April) and my equally accomplished daughter, Allison Stewart Foster (Patrick) together with the gathering of fantastic and enjoyable grandchildren, Jamieson and Madelyn Stewart and Reese and Brady Foster. Each contributed many memories of joy to my life experience, and it is hoped I can continue to follow them from beyond! I also say goodbye to brothers, John (Cheryl) and Richard (Joyce) and numerous nephews, nieces, other family members, and all my friends and acquaintances. In French, it would be Au Revoir!, but in my parlance I simply say, “To the Rev!”

Interment will occur at the Sarasota National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, any gifts of remembrance should go to the Church of the Palms or Beat After Beat Foundation.

Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8

A Celebration of Life will be held at Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota, FL 34239 on May 21, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. followed by a reception.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wiegandbrothers.com for the Stewart family.