Lt. Col. (Ret.) James Richard Stewart ("Jim"), 80, passed away at his home on August 1, 2016 after a lengthy illness. A private graveside service with military honors will be held at Fort Jackson National Cemetery on Friday, August 5.
Mr. Stewart grew up on a Illinois farm and after earning his B.S. in Agriculture from the University of Illinois, was commissioned as a second lieutenant (USAF) serving more than 20 years. His time spent as a navigator was among the highlights of his life. To his family, he glossed over time spent flying reconnaissance missions in Vietnam, instead creating adventuresome stories of training and large bugs. Two overseas tours provided stimulating travel opportunities and left him with lasting impressions.
He'll be remembered for his love of music, fondness for reading history and passion for grilling, the subject of many family gatherings.
The family would like to thank many for the compassionate medical care over several years: Sharon Pugh; Dr. Daniel Love and the staff of Palmetto Pulmonary; Janet Rodgers; the staff of Blue Ridge Hospice.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Katsy Stewart; daughters, M.J. Stewart Ghrist; Kathy Stewart and Barbara Stewart Zinkovich; beloved grandchildren, Lauren Floyd, Jami Vargas and Kelsey Craft and 7 great-grandchildren; siblings Shirley Stoldt of Springfield, Illinois and Virginia Williams of Springfield, Missouri.