James C. Stewart

James Conly Stewart, 99 years, had lived his entire life in Wilmington, Delaware and passed away peacefully on December 27, 2014. Jim was born at his family's home on Lincoln Street on November 16, 1915. He grew up in the Forty Acres community with his parents Samuel Peter and Harriett Hanby Stewart, his sister Mildred, and brothers, Al and Sam. Jim graduated from Wilmington High School in 1932 and from the University of Delaware in 1938. He and Helen Susan Mathieu, also from Wilmington, began 56 years of married life in 1939.

Jim started his DuPont Company career in 1942 as a buyer in the Purchasing Department. The same year, he was ordered to active duty as 1st Lieutenant in the Anti-Aircraft Command. He served in the European Theater of Operations from 1942-1945 and was honorably discharged with the rank of Major in 1946, when he returned to DuPont's Purchasing Department. During his 38 years with DuPont he served as Assistant Manager of the Hotel DuPont and was Director of General Services at the time of his retirement in 1980.

Jim's love of people and God's world led to a remarkable family life and close friendships as well as a distinguished career in public service. Leadership opportunities were welcomed by him as he served on the AAA Mid Atlantic Delaware Regional Board, Greater Wilmington Development Council, Old Brandywine Village, Wilmington Club, Lincoln Club, Rotary Club of Wilmington DE, The Curran Foundation, American Red Cross, Y.M.C.A of Delaware, University of Delaware Alumni Association, Peninsula Methodist Homes, Presbyterian Homes, Delaware Symphony, United Way of Delaware, Sigma Nu Fraternity, New Castle Presbytery, National Council of Presbyterian Men and Hanover Presbyterian Church. He had a strong dedication to education for all children and youth.

Above all, Jim and Susan Stewart loved their FAMILY! Jim celebrated his 99th birthday on November 16th with his children, his grandchildren and his great grandchildren. At the party, many wonderful memories of summers in Avalon, family celebrations, family trips, long walks at Longwood Gardens,his love of golfing, his passion for sports, and Sundays at the Phillies were shared. They treasured the unique gifts of each family member. Their children include: Susan S. Williamson (Randy) and Rebecca S. Arnold (Tim) both of Wilmington DE, Louise S. Leach of Harrisonburg, VA, James C. Stewart, Jr. (Kingsport, TN), and Linda S. Zankowsky (Michael) Garnet Valley, PA. Susan Stewart died on July 26, 1996. Grandchildren: Karen E. Leach NC, Randy S. Williamson (Gwenna) CT, Julie A. Williamson CO, Heather L. Lankford (Andy) VA, Mathieu Arnold (Stephanie), Ben Arnold (Christy) Peter Arnold all of DE,Mark Arnold IN, Brian and Gregory Zankowsky PA. Great Grandchildren: Emma and Drew Lankford, Zachary Williamson, Jacob, Sam and Olivia Arnold, and Nathaniel Arnold.

Jim and his friend Peggy Ayres spent many happy times together in the last 18 years, including regular attendance at Red Clay Presbyterian Church. Jim will be fondly remembered by his many friends at Pelleport, where he exercised three times a week, and Wilmington Country Club, where he enjoyed golfing and dining with family and friends for many years.

The family's sincere appreciation goes to the Wilmington Hospital ACE unit, Home Instead, Elder Care, The Country House Health Care and Compassionate Care Hospice. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Jim's life on Saturday, January 3 at 11:00 followed by a noon lunch at Hanover Presbyterian Church, 1801 Baynard Boulevard, in Wilmington. In lieu of flowers please consider supporting an organization which has special meaning to you. For online condolences, visit: www.mccreryandharra.com 302-478-2204.

Published in The News Journal from Dec. 28, 2014 to Jan. 2, 2015