Jerry Stewart went to be with his precious Lord and Savior on Monday evening, April 6, 2026, at UT Southwestern Hospital.

Jerry was born to James and Dorothy Stewart on April 5, 1948, in Dallas, Texas. Following a couple of moves, Jerry grew up and lived in Sherman, graduating from Sherman High in 1967. Upon graduation he attended the University of Texas at Austin and as a freshman discovered the truth about who Jesus Christ is. He surrendered his life to Christ in November of that year and eventually transferred to East Texas State University in Commerce (currently East Texas A&M) where he became involved with the Navigators Ministry. It was through that ministry that Jerry met the love of his life, Betsye. They were married on May 26, 1973, and moved to Austin where he became Vice President American Moving and Storage. Following the birth of their first child, they moved to Sherman where Jerry spent twenty-five years working at Folger’s Coffee Company.

Jerry loved life and he never met a stranger. He was the perfect blend of Pa Ingalls and Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable: he was strong, led his family well, incredibly hard working yet unbelievably funny and playful. There was never a doubt that Jerry loved his wife and daughters, and this was evidenced by the way he served them. Spending time outdoors doing yard work and gardening brought him great joy. His biggest joy though was spending time with his grandchildren. Whether it was walks at Hagerman Refuge, digging in dirt piles in his yard, bowling, or enjoying good barbeque, Jerry loved being with his grandson, Weston. They would often have deep Pappy conversations about life and following Jesus.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Betsye; his daughter, Stephanie Wakeem and husband, Scott and their son, Weston; his daughter, Elizabeth Moore and husband Randall and their children Abigail and Ethan. He is also survived by his sister Elaine Williams and brother Jim Stewart.

The family will greet friends on Sunday, April 12th at 1 pm in the Waldo Family Center for a reception with a celebration of life service immediately following at the Waldo Funeral Home chapel at 2 pm.

The family would like to convey their deepest thanks to the UT Southwestern Hospital staff for the love and care they gave Jerry during his last days.