George E. Stuard

George Edgar Stuard, 88, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2023, at Sentara-Leigh Memorial Hospital. He was born on March 5, 1935. His wife, Hisae Funasaki Stuard, parents, Arthur Lee Stuard and Anna Elizabeth Stuard, and half-brother and sister in law, Albert Kern and Zola Kern, preceded him in death.

George was born in Louisville, KY, and raised in Kentucky and Indiana. After high school George enlisted in the United States Navy and retired after 20 years of service. He served two tours in Vietnam and earned a Joint Service Commendation, Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal, Vietnam Civil Action Medal First Class, Vietnam Camp Consolidation II Bronze Star, and Vietnam Ceasefire Campaign (Bronze Star). Following his military service, he worked for the Department of the Navy (Civil Service) and retired after 30 years of service.

Above all else, George loved his family, his friends, and neighbors. As has been said of him, He never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a hand. He was committed to the SGI Buddhist community and was passionate about core Buddhist principles such as respect for the inherent dignity of human life and profound confidence in people’s capacity for positive transformation. He helped many people awaken to their own potential through the Buddhist practice.

He is survived by his son, William Stuard; daughter-in-law, Caroline Stuard; grandson, Jacob Stuard; granddaughter, Rose Stuard; niece, Kathy Kern; life partner, Chidori Harmon; her son and daughter-in-law, Bernard and Denise Harmon, and their children, Haley and Ashley; and daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Jeffrie Wilson.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home. You may offer condolences at www.kellumfuneralhome.com