Jessie L. Stewart

Jessie L. Stewart, 95, of Van Wert and formerly of Seelyville, Ind., died at 2:34 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2014, at Hearth & Home in Van Wert.

She was born May 16, 1918, in Brazil, Ind., the daughter of the late George and Emma (McNeil) Howald. On June 14, 1942, she married Howard W. Stewart, who preceded her in death on May 2, 1988.

Survivors include two children, Rhea (Warren) Foy of Van Wert and Darrel (Patricia) Stewart of Safety Harbor, Fla.; four grandchildren, Alicia (David) Shotwell, Melody (Eric) McCracken, Kelly (Marty) McDaniel and Kara Stewart; and seven great-grandchildren, Tyler and Jordan Shotwell, Ryan, Jalen, Damon and Griffin McCracken; and Lindsey Jo McDaniel.

Two brothers, Leroy Howald and Harry James Howald; and two sisters, Eva Maurie Boatright and Kathryn Myers, also preceded her in death.

Mrs. Stewart formerly taught in Jackson Township, Clay County, Ind., until her marriage. After marriage, she was a homemaker in Seelyville, Ind., for 62 years. She was a member of Seelyville United Methodist Church for more than 50 years.

She was a graduate of Indiana Normal Teachers College (now Indiana State University), was formerly a children’s choir director, Sunday school teacher, church choir member and served on many church committees. She also chaired the church Worship Committee for many years.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31, at French Funeral Home in Brazil, Ind., with the Rev. Jack Diel officiating. Burial will be in Wesley Chapel Cemetery.

Calling hours are from 4-8 p.m. Friday, May 30, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials: Seelyville United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 196, Seelyville, IN 47878.

Local arrangements were handled by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.

Online condolences may be left at www.alspachgearhart.com.