Leona W. (Walker) Stewart

Born on February 29, 1932 as a twin, in Newbern, Alabama, Leona Walker Stewart was the
cherished daughter of Lee Andrew and Emma Lee Walker. Along with her older sister, Emma,
she grew up in a close-knit family, instilling in her a deep appreciation for love and togetherness
that she carried throughout her life. At an early age, the family relocated to Dolomite,
Alabama.

Leona was educated in Jefferson County and graduated from Holy Family High School. Because
of her true spirit of compassion and care, she furthered her education at Grady Nursing School
in Atlanta Georgia and received a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Alabama.
Leona was united in matrimony to William Stewart and to this union, two sons, William
Haygood and Michael Angelo were born. She nurtured them with unwavering support and
boundless affection.

Throughout her life, Leona found joy in family. She was a happiest surrounded by family. Her
love was unyielding and she shared it generously with her family, friends, and all those she
encountered.

Leona dedicated her life to serving others. She spent many years as a compassionate and skilled
nurse, caring for countless patients and educating nursing students. Her dedication to her
profession was evident in the countless stories of her patients and students who were touched
by her kindness and expertise. She retired from the Veterans Administration Hospital in 1996.
Leona’s dedication to her family and profession was only matched by her fervent faith and
commitment to her church. A longtime member of Holy Family Catholic Church, she was deeply
involved in her church community. She served as a lector, RENEW facilitator, greeter, and a
member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights of Peter Claver. Beyond her formal roles, Leona
was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it was visiting the sick, comforting the
grieving, or simply offering a listening ear. She believed that her work was a reflection of her
faith, and she lived her life according to the teachings of Christ.

On the morning of September 21, Leona’s earthly sojourn came to a close, and her spirit took a
flight to her heavenly abode.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents, twin brother, Lee; her beloved son, William
Haygood Stewart, her sister, Emma Walker (Earthy) Cleveland and niece, Constance Cleveland.
She leaves behind a legacy of love through with her devoted son, Michael Angelo Stewart;
adoring grandchildren, Derrick (Katie) Stewart and Michael (Debra) Stewart; great
grandchildren, Ebony Stewart, Derrick J. Stewart II, Timothy J. Stewart, Michael Stewart III,
Carrington Stewart, and Bronwyn Stewart, who will carry forward her spirit of love and
compassion. Her memory will forever be cherished by her extended family by blood and family
by love, friends, and community.

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