Brenda McGraw Stewart's Obituary
Mrs. Brenda McGraw Stewart, 79, of Huntersville, NC passed away Monday, November 13, 2023.
Brenda was a native Charlottean having lived in the Charlotte or Huntersville area her entire life. She was a long-time member of Independence Hill Baptist Church where she volunteered in many roles over 75 years. In 1987, Brenda’s desire to help others manifested into the construction ministry Hearts & Hammers. A joint venture between Independence Hill Baptist Church and J. Alton Stewart Construction, her family’s company, H&H operated similar to an old time “barn raising”, pulling the church and community together annually during the Fourth of July week to complete projects. Her vision of reaching others in their time of need was realized through the numerous churches, community centers and food banks constructed or renovated through the ministry’s 20 years of service. She began her career as a teacher in the Charlotte area, but soon made a career change to full time mother where she truly excelled. Brenda’s love for helping others led her to pursue the degree of MA of Counseling and a certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor. For the next 21 years, she worked as a Chaplain for Novant Health, before retiring to be a full-time grandmother. She loved reading, reflecting and having deep conversations with her loved ones.
Mrs. Stewart is survived by her husband of 57 years, Alton Stewart, their children: Ms. Kelli Allen of Charlotte, NC, Lee Stewart (Dana) of Iron Station, NC, and Scott Stewart (Jamie) of Huntersville, NC, grandchildren; Sam, Kayla, Kenzie, Hunter & Wyatt; brother Dick (Peggy) of Matthews, NC, niece Erin Hall (Josh) of Charlotte, NC and many loving aunts, cousins as well as life-long friends whose bond began in 1st grade at Nevin Elementary School.
A Celebration of Life party will be held at 2pm, Sunday November 19th at Independence Hill Baptist Church located at 10220 Independence Hill Road, Huntersville, NC 28078. The family will receive friends following a service of celebration, and request that those in attendance feel free to come as you are, no formal attire necessary.
In lieu of flowers, Brenda would have wanted memorials to be made to any organization that helps others in a time of need.
Online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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