Gerald Lee Stewart, age 85, a resident of Gloucester, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on April 17, 2026, with his devoted wife by his side. Born on February 4, 1941, Gerald was the son of the late Ardy and Vivian Stewart. He grew up on a farm in Paris, Arkansas, before relocating to Virginia as a teenager.
He was a man of quiet intellect, a lifelong explorer of astronomy, computers, and anything mechanical with a lifelong passion for cars and motorcycles. His professional life showed his many skills. He eventually retired from the textile industry after 28 years with BASF of Williamsburg. After retirement, he started his own company, Spectrum Computers. He was truly ahead of his time in the world of computing; he built computers and set up networks well before the internet became a household staple.
Gerald was a voracious reader of science fiction. As a speed reader, he could finish a paperback book in just a few hours. He was also an avid enthusiast of telescopes, cameras, fishing, and sailing. He found great joy in optics and engineering, loving the tools that allowed a clearer view of the world and the stars.
He also had a great love for animals. He spent many hours feeding the birds and enjoyed keeping unique pets, including reptiles, a ferret, and a parrot. Most of all, he was rarely seen in his chair without a dog in his lap.
Gerald was a dedicated volunteer with the Boy Scouts. He served as a Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, and District Commissioner, receiving many awards for his service. He strongly believed in the Scouts’ mission to develop young boys into leaders. After more than a decade of service, he was very proud to be inducted into the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor Society. He was also a former member of the Abingdon Ruritan Club.
He enjoyed learning about his family history and discovering that he came from a long line of pioneers and patriots, a legacy he was honored to pass down to his children.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Ardy and Vivian. He was also preceded by his two brothers, Donald Ray Stewart and Buel Lee Stewart.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Dolores S. Stewart. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love. In his final weeks, Dolores provided him with unwavering care at home. She remained by his side until the very end.
He also leaves behind his children: Michele Evans (Norwood), Michael Stewart (Beth), Charles Stewart (Katie), and Jonathan Stewart. He is survived by his five grandchildren: Christopher Evans, Brian Evans, Duncan Stewart, Ethan Stewart and Sabrina Stewart.
Service arrangements to be announced at a later date.