James "Louis" Stewart, Jr.
May 10, 1956 ~ September 28, 2015
James “Louis” Stewart, Jr., 59, of Lexington Park, MD formerly from Loveville, MD, passed away on September 28, 2015 at his home. Born on May 10, 1956 in Leonardtown, MD, he was the son of the late Margaret “Laverne” Somerville Stewart and James Louis “Josh” Stewart, Sr. Louis was the loving husband of Carolyn P. Pilkerton Stewart, whom he married on April 21, 1978 in Leonardtown, MD. Louis is survived by his children: Heather (Marcus Woody) of Lexington Park, MD, Amber (Michael Gerretz) of Lexington Park, MD, and 3 grandchildren: Alexander, Madison, and Josephina-Marie. Siblings; Valerie Young of Upper Marlboro, MD, Carmencita Bell, (JR) of Waldorf, MD, F. Luchino Stewart (Robin) of Loveville, MD, Charlottis Woodley (Lawrence) of Loveville, MD,mother in-law Doris V. Pilkerton of Mechanicville, MD, sister in-laws; Kathy Harris (Jimmy) of Mechanicsville, MD, Mary Pilkerton of Mechanicsville, MD, Diane Pilkerton of Mechanicsville, MD, and Joyce Wilkerson ( Willie) of Mechanicsville, MD. Louis is survived by a host of nephews, aunts, uncles, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father in-law Michael A. Pilketon, and brother in-law Charles Young. Louis graduated from Chopticon high school in 1975, and was a lifelong resident of St. Mary’s County, MD. He served in the United States Army for 6 years from 1982 to 1988. His duty stations included; Hawaii, Colorado, and Korea, he earned the Good Conduct Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Lapel Button and was a Rifle M-16 Marksmen, and Hand Grenade Marksman. Louis worked for the St. Mary’s County Board of Education as a Safety Advocate for 19 years, retiring on November 1, 2014.
He was a member of the American Legion and he volunteered as the youth basketball coach for St. Mary’s County Recreation and Parks. He also worked the summer camps at Kings Christian Academy, and he loved golfing, and his Denver Bronco’s football team.
The family will receive friends on Monday, October 5, 2015 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM with prayers recited at 7:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 6, 2015 at 10:00 AM in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Morganza, MD with Father Keith A. Woods officiating and Deacon James A. Somerville con-celebrating. Interment will follow in Charles Memorial Gardens Leonardtown, MD. Pallbearers will be: Jeremy Harris, Jason Harris, Brian Bosse, Joseph Bell, Dennis Pilkerton, Adam Pilkerton, and Stephen Stewart. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Dennis Murray, Junior Armstrong, J. Blaine Somerville, Jr. Tyvie Herbert, Paul “Sam” Stewart, Ralph Barber, Francis Evans, and Joseph Taylor. Contributions may be made to the Edmond J. Safra Family Lodge 9650 Rockville Pike Bethesda, MD 20814, Dr. Andrea B. Apolo, M.D. Bladder Cancer Research Team at NIH Building 31, Room 3A11 31 Center Drive Bethesda, MD 20814, and or Hospice of St. Mary’s P.O. Box 625 Leonardtown, MD 20650.





I could not believe the news when I heard it. God truly gained a GREAT man. “Stewart” will be truly missed but never forgotten. To his family: My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know that they are happy.
My sincere sympathies to Louis’ family. I remember what a great kid he was at Mother Catherine Spalding School. He was such a fine and loveable person. My prayers are with you.
To Reminisce about Louis gives us memories of his laughter and kindness to others. We new Louis at Chopticon HS where played football, our children grew up knowing Louis who worked security at Great Mills HS where they graduated. We would see Carolyn and Louis out dining at Cracker Barrel or bowling with his daughters families. Our daughters were also saddened to learn of Louis’ passing , they regarded him as a friend as well. Our sympathy to his children and grandchildren and to his lovely wife.
My deepest sympathy to Carolyn, your daughters, grandchildren (he spoiled), and the Stewart family for the loss of Louis. He was always friendly, and had kind words to say to you. Our children went to school together, played together and he and my cousins became close from Mother Catherine to Chopticon High School. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life”. Rest-in-Peace Louis
I was so saddened to here of the passing of Louis. He was such a kind caring person. I worked with him and he always had smile to brighten your day. He was a true friend. He will be sincerely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family and hope they know there is no more suffering for Louis…Just Peace God Bless
That laugh…it was so infectious. There is no way you could be in his presence and not find yourself laughing also. I worked with Mr. Stewart and I know he will truly be missed by many. His smile was as bright as he was. My condolences goes out to his family. You all were greatly loved by Louis. He talked about you all often and hung a picture of his beautiful grandchildren in the office. May his soul Rest in Peace.
My deepest sympathy to Carolyn, Amber and Heather, and his precious grandchildren his friends and family. May you all find strength in God to guide you through your loss. Cherish all of your memories, and know you have a beautiful guardian angel watching over you all.
To the Family: I pray that it comforts you to know that your grief and sadness is shared by all of us who knew Louis. He had a great sense of humor and always seemed so happy and full of life. He will be missed very much. Hold tight to memories for comfort, lean on one another for strength, and always remember how much he loved each and everyone of you. God Bless.
It is difficult to find words, “Mr. Stewart” was a man who always cared, for just about everyone. He gave of himself in so many ways, to so many people, of all ages. He was always positive, and full of life. He was a special man. He was a good friend. He will be missed, and he will not be forgotten. Rest in peace dear friend. You lived well.
To the family- May the loss in your lives be filled by memories & the knowledge that he will always be with you, & in each other
To all of the Stewart family, my deepest condolences for your loss of your loved one…my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
to the stewart family my prayers and sympathy are with u I am sorry for your loss
Mr. Stewart was the best safety and security member Great Mills ever had. No matter what day, you would always get a smile and I am truly blessed to have known him throughout my high school years. He was truly a great man. God bless you all through this difficult time.
To the Stewart Family, Carolyn, I am so sorry to hear that Louis loss this battle. I pray God will comfort you all and give your hearts and minds peace throughout this period of grieving and beyond. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
In Christ’s Love-Darlene
Carolyn and family, I was so saddened to see that Louis had passed. My love and prayers go out to all of you. Louis was a wonderful man whom I’ve know since school and work at Stewart’s and of course thru Mama Laverne. I know he was battling illness and I’m so sorry. May the Lord look after you during this time.
I am very saddened to hear about Mr. Stewart’s passing. He was working at Great Mills when I attended. He was always so much fun to talk to. Loved to crack jokes and make us laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Heartfelt condolences to Louis’ family; he was one of a kind! We knew him well back in his CHS days, where he could double you over in laughter as easily as he could carry the ball down the football field. In later years, we saw him at GMHS events, and he always greeted you like you were his best friend. His presence on this earth will be missed. I will say prayers for comfort for your hurting hearts.
Carolyn and family I am so sorry to hear of Louis’ passing. May God bless and be with each of you. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Our family will deeply miss Louis. With children now 22, 18 and 16, he was a gift to each of them. He was always a coach for children in every role within our community -especially life and ball. Louis never met anyone without a smile, and that smile is just how we will remember him. He never asked how someone was without waiting for the answer because he cared.
When I read of his passing, this came to mind:
Children are not a distraction from more important work, they are the most important work. – CS Lewis
We thank God for Louis and the gift he was to ALL children. Thank you for sharing him with our family.
May your memories hold you tight.
I want to let the family of Louis to know how sorry I am to hear of Louis’s passing. I met Louis back in the day from just being around Leonardtown. Then I got to know him a little better when we worked at Wentworth Bros. and we rode back and forth to work a lot. Louis always had a smile on his face and to hear that laugh of his is something you just don’t EVER forget. I’ve never forgotten it and it’s been well over 30 years since I saw him the last time. The man ALWAYS had a smile on his face. I think I may have seen him a little mad or should I say upset maybe once. The previous night a boxing match had come on TV and one of the boxers got knocked out within the 1st round at 49 seconds. Louis said the guy should’ve at least made in to the 2nd round so it would be worth watching. He was a great man and I’m sure he will be missed by ALL. They just don’t make em like him anymore. I’m glad to have had the pleasure to call him my friend. R.I.P. my friend.
May God comfort all of you at this timeyou of sorrow. Mr. Stewart was a nice fun loving man teacher and coach. May he rest in eternal peace. You all have my deepest sympathies. May God grant you peace and serenity…
So sad to hear of Lewis’ passing. Enjoyed seeing him during our days at CHS, both in our high school days in the late 70s as well as football games against Great Mills in the late 90s. Lewis and my husband, John Haas, were buddies while working at GMHS, too. We always looked forward to seeing him around school functions over the past years. Lewis will be missed by so many friends. Our prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
My deepest sadness by the news of your loss. I pray that God will grant you the comfort and peace that you seek and may the soul of your loved one rest in peace . My Condolences go out to and the family.
I am sadden by this new’s. When I was a school bus driver for Great Mill’s High School, Stewart would alway’s be the one to help me when I had issue’s with the student’s on my bus. He was a really nice and fun man to be with and use to tell me I was crazy. When it came time to vote, he would be at the voting pole’s giving you a sticker that said I voted. My heart and prayer’s goes out to his family at a time like this. He will truly be missed by many. God has called him home now with him. Again I am so sorry.
Condolences to the Stewart family, prayers and strength to you. Another Angel has earned his wings, because he sure was an angel for the kids. May he are st in Paradise.
Condolences and Love to the Stewart family. I am so very sorry for your loss. You will all be in my prayers. Mr. Stewart was one of my very favorite people that I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. He was a true joy and blessing to the staff and especially the kids at GMHS. I sent a balloon to Heaven today, along with a prayer, to honor his memory. God bless you all. ♡♡
He was a good man I could always make him laugh I called him chicken wing worked around him for 6 years rip you will be missed
My condolences go out to Louis’s entire family. I pray you find comfort in knowing Louis will suffer no more. Louis was an all-around wonderful person who always had a smile on his face and left you with one as well. Know that the dash between his birth and death was full of joy he brought to many people and I’m sure many hearts were touched. He will be greatly missed but also never forgotten. May God bless you all with the strength to endure this time. R.I.P. Louis.
I am thankful for the years I was able to work with Mr. Stewart. His laughter made you smile and brightened up my day at GMHS. Prayers for his family and friends.
Carolyn and family, May peace and comfort find you during this difficult time. RIP Louis
So sorry to hear of Louis’ passing. I played football at Chopticon with Louis; he was a tremendous running back. I think he may have tied the Maryland State record in the 100 yard dash while running track in the 1970’s. I remember his infectious laugh and smile. I ran into Louis later in life and he always had the same, happy disposition. My thoughts go out to his family; he will be missed!
Phil Weiner
Carolyn, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
My condolences to his family Louis was a wonderful man he could make you laugh no matter what he had a beautiful heart he was like a big brother to me in high school he looked out for me even when I didn’t want him to I’m sure there are a lot of people who feel that way Louis always looked out for people that needed it he will be deeply missed you can tell how special he was by all the loving messages left by so many people my prayers are with him and his family
To the Stewart Family and Carolyn, My deepest sympathy to you all. I remember Louis when I was going to CHS, he was always funny, I believe he was the class clown one year cant recall. But he would make you laugh. He will be missed by many classmates. But God has other plans for him and now he wont have to suffer anymore. Rest in peace Louis…Everyone will miss you dearly..
Carolyn I am very sorry for your loss. Louis was a very sweet person, I will always remember his smile, and the many lives he has touched through the years. May god comfort you, your daughters, and the family at this time of sorrow.
So sorry to hear the sad news in regard to Louis. We remember him, especially his Chopticon days. Our prayers go to his entire family during this difficult time.
mr.Stewart will be dearly missed.i remember going to great mills and him and mr.Murray would always say what u doing in the hallway now hazel. and I’d look at them and say my daily duty and go on bout my business lol.this is heart breaking so sorry for your lost.
Carolyn and Family, I was so sadden to hear of Louis’s passing. He was such a Wonderful person and a Great Friend. From the time I met Louis as a classmate at Chopticon High School and recently working with him, he always made me and others smile. He could make anyone’s day brighter. No matter how long it had been since I’d seen him, he would always have that smile and laughter. We would catch up on what each other had been doing. Talking about our wonderful Families, especially our Kids and then our Grandkids. What a Joy! During his illness he never let me know of his pain, He would always tell me he was good and then ask me how I was doing. What a strong man. Always concerned about others and how they were doing, or what he could do to help, or just give a word of kindness. Memories that will always be in my Heart. He will truly be missed. An Angel in heaven now making them laugh! My deepest sympathy goes out to you Carolyn and your Family. God Bless all of You.
It is difficult to find words. “Mr. Stewart” was a special man, he gave much to many, of all ages. He spread joy & laughter, and he truly cared for others. He was a good friend. He will be missed, he will not be forgotten. Rest in peace, dear friend, you lived well. Your memory remains in my heart & in the hearts of many others. Thank you for the joy & friendship you gave. To the family- may many wonderful memories help to fill the loss in your lives, and the knowledge that he will always be with you, in your hearts & in each other
Carolyn and family, so sorry for your loss. Even though it has been 40 years since high school, I can still hear his laugh. Thoughts and prayers Keith
My sympathy to the entire family. Prayers for strength and healing.
My family has such fond memories of Mr. Stewart from “biddy basketball” to games at Mother Catherine. Years later, he would stop us whenever we saw him to ask how everyone was doing. He left a lasting impression of kindness and warmth.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to members of the Stewart family. Whenever we saw Louis he had a smile on his face which was infectious. He will be greatly missed. We will keep you in our prayers. Remember you now have another angel looking out for you.
Mr. Stewart was such a bright light when he was here at Great Mills High School. He had a heart for the students and staff and was an important part of our GMHS family. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. He touched many lives in a positive way with his generous manner and ever-present smile.
To the family you have my deepest condolences. Carolyn I don’t know if you remember me and my sister Paula first met you and Louis when are girls were playing on cheerleading team together. That was almost 20 plus years ago. Your family is in my prayers during these difficult times. Keep the faith and God will see you through.
HI Carolina sorry for your lost my thoughts ND prayers are with you ND your family may God give you strength ND courage to get though this trying times God Bless you
I am truly sorry for the lost of Mr Stewart. if it wasn’t for him I definitely would have been kicked out of school my very first day . he always had us laughing and everything . I definitely can’t believe he is gone !! until we see you again have Heaven laughing just like you had us down here on Earth! ! love you Mr Stewart <3 Thank you for touching aLOT of people !! u definitely will NOT be forgotten !! Gone way to soon !! #FkCancer; God needed another Angel so he took you; one of the best !! keep a eye out on ur Family & Friends !!! God bless and I'm soo sorry about yalls lost ! Will be saying Goodbye to you on Monday !! God bless *Tears* ; ( ; (
To Mr. Stewart’s family: Louis was larger than life and brightened up every room he entered. I fondly remember my days teaching at GMHS where he was the go to guy and always good for a pick me up. He was liked and even more, highly respected by the students and staff alike. He coached my special needs kid in biddy basketball- he didn’t know any kids name on the team, but he knew Nico’s! C’mon Nico!picture frame!he’d say trying to get Nico to shoot a basket. He was a one of a kind friend, mentor to many, person who will be sorely missed.
I’m very sorry for your loss and my prayers are with the family. I will forever remember Louis’ laugh, and his ability to get along with everyone by just being himself. The world was made brighter with hope and laughter because Louis was here, now he is making the heavens brighter.
How saddened we were to see this news. Mr. Stewart was our boys basketball coach for several years. He was a joy to watch interact with the young kids. My oldest knew of him from LHS as security on campus. Always cheerful. May peace be with the family at this hard time.
To the Stewart Family,
I was shocked when I heard the news today about Louis. While growing up in Leonardtown, Louis and my brother Phil were friends. Louis was one of the real super stars to me. A true gentleman, sports icon and always a fun conversation. When the Stewarts moved out of town and I would pass their house I always looked at the trophies proudly displayed in the front window. The Stewart’s house was one of my landmarks and still is today. Fast forward 40 years at GMHS one Saturday afternoon for a youth rally and there was Louis larger than life. It was as if we had seen each other yesterday.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Helen
Charlottis: I was very sorry to hear of your brother’s death. Although I never knew him, I know that he is with the Lord. My condolences to the whole family.
I am so sorry and shocked to hear of Louis’ passing
I will never forget the day when I was covering Chopticon football for the newspaper. I was getting ready to walk off the field. Chopticon had the ball on its own 20. As I began walking away from the sideline, Louis came bursting out of the line and ran right at me for an 80-yard touchdown. It was one of the truly great sports photos I ever took.
Safe journeys my friend
Even though years have passed and time has gone on, I still remember him as one who would brighten everyone’s day during school, as one in the graduating class of “1975”. My husband and I send our prayers and blessings to his family from NC. Continue to be uplifted with God’s grace and mercy. He will be truly missed.
Even though years have passed and time has gone on, I still remember him as one who would brighten everyone’s day during school, as one in the graduating class of “1975”. My husband and I send our prayers and blessings to his family from NC. Continue to be uplifted with God’s grace and mercy. He will be truly missed.
To the Stewart Family: Our sincere condolences. Thinking of your family and keeping you all in our prayers. We wish we had words that could help to ease your loss. Although it is difficult to see beyond the sorrow today, we pray that looking back in memory will comfort your tomorrow. Your loss is heaven’s gain. RIP Louis.
Dear Carolyn:
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Take care. Kathy Stauffer
To Louis’ family I send my prayers and sympathies on your loss. My bothers and I were part of the Ryken swimming pool group back when we were in middle/high school and so was Louis. We spent a few summers together almost daily and all became great friends. He’s one of big reasons I know how to swim! I usually ran into Louis at least once a year and we always shared a big bear hug and fond memories from long ago. I saw him a couple of months ago never dreaming it would be the last. He was the nicest person and even though I saw him very infrequently, I will miss him. Blessings to all of you during this time and you will keep him with you with your memories and stories you share.
Our condolences to you Carolyn and your family, we will miss Lewis, his warmth and the way he could always make you smile.
Dear Carolyn and family and friends,
Bells are ringing, for we have another Angel
Among us. Heartfelt sympathy goes out to you.
Cherish the memories. Love and Peace always.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Let there be no sorrow. May he rest in peace
Forever and ever. Amen.
Dear Carolyn, kids, grandkids, and the Stewart family. We are so saddened at the loss of our good friend Lewis. Every time we would see him he always had a huge smile and a laugh that was so contagious and would pick you up no matter how you felt. We know his family and friends will dearly miss him as we will. Rest assured that God has a very special place Heaven for him and will watch over him for eternity. You will all be in our prayers. Rest in peace our brother.
I apologize for the misspelling of Louis’s name in our previous post.
Carolyn & Family,
I am so sorry for your loss, my heart goes out to you all. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Louis, was wonderful, friendly, beautiful spirited person, always had a smile when you did run into him. He has certainly left his touch in the St. Mary’s County community. Carolyn & daughters, cherish all of your beautiful memories, hold on to God’s unchanging hand, trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. God Bless you ALL. (The Family of George & Mary Stewart)
Carolyn and family, I am so sorry for you loss and for the pain you feel. Louis was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed. Carolyn I bet you Louis and Kit are already looking for that Outback in heaven to have a big steak . Teresa
I will miss you Mr. Stewart ~ Rest in Peace!
Our sincere sympathy is shared with the Stewart family in their time of great loss. As so many have already shared, Mr. Stewart always had away of making you smile (even when you didn’t feel like it). Our family will truly miss Mr. Stewart, he was such a dear person, with such love and compassion for all that were lucky enough to cross his path (family, friends, kids, parents, grandparents, and coworkers). Mr. Stewart will be missed on the daily, in the school halls, sports events (big and small), camps, and around town. We as a community have loss so much with his passing. We know without a shadow of a doubt, God held a very special place for him in heaven; as we all (old and young) do here on earth in our hearts! May God bless your family always and thank you for sharing Mr. Stewart with us all!
To The Family
Our hearts are very saddened by your loss. And may you be surrounded by God’s Love and care during these times of pain and sorrow. As we all are keeping your Family in our prayers may your heart be filled with warm thoughts and treasured moments of/with Louis as he rests in Paradise.
His greeting….His smile, said it all! Well done, good friend!
To Carolyn and the family…bless your hearts!
Stewart family you have my heart felt condolences on the passing of Lewis,He was such a loveing and Funny guy. He will be missed
Carolyn & all the family,
My condolences, thoughts & prayers to all of you. May you find comfort from family, friends and neighbors during this difficult time. God Bless.
Carolyn, Heather, Amber and Family, my Condolence on your loss of Louis, hold onto the memories and continue to live in his foot steps. Stewart as I always called him was a funny Man and was full of joy and truly will be missed. May God comfort you all during this time, it will be hard but hold onto God unchanging Hand and he will lead you.
Dearest Carolyn, My heart goes out to you and the family on your loss of such a great man. As you already know he touched many hearts throughout his life here on earth and it was always a pleasure to see his smiling face and catch up on things here and there through the years. I pray for peace and comfort for you all in the days to come. Hoping your many cherished memories of Louis will help ease the pain. Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers! Hugs!
I am sorry to hear about your lost. When you hear about
the lost of a friend you can’t help but go down memory
lane, remembering the good times. May god comfort you
and your family in this time of lost.
My friend, Louis, always a joker with a smile. He had a mission and love for the youth, was a great man and left a legible memory on every life he touched. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to his family, because the world was a better place with him in it. See you in the great getting up morning, Louis. I won’t say good-bye, I’ll say see you later, friend.
My Sincerest Condolences to you, Carolyn and the Stewart & Pilkerton Families on the Loss of Louis. He was a very good friend ( and altar boy !) while at Mother Catherine Spalding School. Thanks again for the Sherlock Holmes book Louis! I kept reading it for many a year. May you Rest In Peace
To Mr. Louis family: My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.May he Rest in Peace and Continue to Cherish good memories of him.