Gary Allan Stewart

He was born in Lott, Texas to Theophilus Albert (T.A.) and Bethel (Baker) Stewart on April 19, 1936. He passed away peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on February 19, 2023 at the age of 86.

Gary, known to friends and family as “Bubba” grew up in Hearne, Texas and graduated from Hearne High School. He attended one semester at Baylor University before joining the Army and later transferring into the Air Force. Bubba married Becky, his high school sweetheart in 1956. They were happily married for 66 years.

During his military career, Bubba and Becky spent three tours of duty in the state of Alaska where he enjoyed his favorite activities of hunting and fishing. He was also a member of the National Ski Patrol while stationed at Eielson AFB, Alaska. Bubba was also an avid archer and competed in many archery tournaments. Bubba and Becky’s last military transfer was to Randolph AFB, Texas in 1976 where he retired from the Air Force after 20 years of service. He went on to work in retail for Montgomery Ward Sporting Goods and later as the manager of Nagel’s Gun Shop. He then left to work with his longtime childhood friend, Stanley Hips, at Stanley Hips Targets where together they later opened an archery business, H&S Archery.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, T.A. and Bethel Stewart; sister, Jenna Lou Goodson; and nephew, Allan Goodson.

He is survived by his spouse, Rebecca June Stewart; children, Connie Sue Wagner (Foy Wagner) of Bulverde, Texas and Sandra Lea Neal (Darrell Neal) of Madison, AL; grandchildren, Richard Allan Lovelady, 1LT Austin Lee Neal (Tyler Neal), Erin Lynn Neal, Amelia Wagner Babbs (Daniel Babbs), Jamee Wagner Yule (Justin Yule); great grandchildren, Cameron, Lillian, Braeden, and Landon; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

A funeral service honoring Gary’s life will be held Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Live Oak First Baptist Church, 11560 Toepperwein Road, Live Oak, TX 78233. A reception will follow the service.

Burial service will be held the following Monday, March 6, 2023 at 10:30AM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Committal Shelter #3, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78209.

The Stewart family is deeply grateful for the love and support during this time and wishes to give special thanks to Ms. Reina Gonzalez for the loving care she has provided for our parents, Bubba and Becky.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.colonialuniversal.com for the Stewart family.