Michael Gene Stewart, age 75, of Garland, Texas, died peacefully at the home of his daughter Feb. 6, 2021, from complications of thyroid cancer. His loving family was by his side. Mike was born on Sept. 14, 1945, in Ennis, to the late Jack Delbert, Sr. and Dora Ellen (Johnson) Stewart.
He was a graduate of Ennis High School and Abilene Christian University ’67. In 1970 Mike married the former Barbara Nell Eaker, his soulmate and best friend for over 50 years.
He is survived by his son Todd Stewart and son-in-law Dr. Edmund Cibas of Boston, Massachusetts; daughter Tracy Stewart and partner Tony Alva of Mesquite; daughter Taylor and her husband Daniel Hooberry of Garland; five grandchildren, Tyler, Brynlee, Boston, Zeke and Kaia; brother Jack Stewart and his wife Jean of Abilene; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his wife, who passed away just two weeks earlier, Jan. 22, 2021.
Mike began his career at Liberty Mutual Insurance of Arkansas. He became Associate Vice President at Republic National Life of Dallas before moving to Anthem Health, Blue Cross/Blue Shield and finally Regions Bank. Mike and Barbara were devoted members of the Saturn Road church of Christ and never missed a church event. Mike’s sincerity endeared him to everyone.
A paragon of the family man, he was devoted to his children and never missed a school performance. He provided a stable, happy and fun-filled home life and never lost the opportunity to make a corny joke. But the role he cherished most was being a grandfather. His grandchildren, who called him Papa, were the light of his life. He loved his role as teacher and protector – there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them.
His family would like to express their thanks to Amy and Travis Block, Jeff Garrett and family, Andretta Lowry, Linda and Danny Rich, Cindy and Larry Richmond, Nann Stewart, Johna Johnson Armistead, and many others for their support.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you pay it forward: take your children or grandchildren out for ice cream, buy a stranger a cup of coffee, donate to an animal shelter – anything to brighten someone’s day.
Due to Covid-19, the burial will be private. Condolences for the family may be left at resthavenfuneral.com. Interment at Rest Haven Memorial Park, Rockwall.