Willie C Steward

After graduating High School, Willie was drafted into the United States Army and served in the 258th Signal Construction Company, Camp Crowder, MO. At the age of 19

Willie distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious service in a succession of various positions of great importance and responsibility to the Army and our Nation. (World War II Veteran: Til Valhalla)

Willie was a skilled fisherman, gardener, equestrian, falconer, aircraft mechanic, & dabbled in archery. Willie rode horses in the rodeo and competed in barrel racing under the name “Waco Willie!” At the time, African American cowboys were vastly underrepresented, but our father broke barriers, and his legacy will remain part of the American fabric for an eternity.

Willie was an entrepreneur and at one time owned a local dry cleaners and spent time as a personal chauffeur.

Willie, affectionately referred to as “Bill,” also sang in a gospel quartet for many years and is credited with recording an album.

Another one of Willie’s passions was Falconry; He was the first African American to receive a license in the State of Arizona to train falcons and raise them. Willie would often have several spectators watch as his falcon performed tricks that he had so patiently and diligently trained.

Bill was a man of limitless talent, ambition, drive, and determination. His generosity & kindhearted spirit was felt by everyone who knew him. Dad was a wonderful father, grandfather, brother and Uncle.

On January 10, 2022, the Lord called Willie home. Willie is preceded in death by his beloved wife, the love of his life, Mist Ann Steward, along with his four siblings, Hamp Steward, Reader Steward, Alvester Cotton & Gladys Lane.

Willie is survived by his brother Jeffra steward, sister Evelyn Austin, daughter Adrain M. Joe, son Jimmy E. Smith (Martha), grandchildren Brittany Arriola (Roman), Kolby Jacobson (Vanessa), Shealeigh Ivori Smith, Emery R. Johnson II & Mist Jazzlynd M. Johnson, Destiny Joe & George L. Joe IV All from Tucson, Arizona & Lisette Spencer (John) of Fresno, California along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, & extended family.

A graveside service for Willie will be held Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Funeraria del Angel South Lawn, 5401 South Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85706.

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