Henderson Stewart

Henderson Stewart was born on April 21, 1940 in Waxhaw, North Carolina to the late
Fred Sr. and Aloma Stewart.
He was educated in the Winston Salem, NC school system until moving north for
economic opportunities. His initial stop was Columbus, OH to reunite with his brother Fred
Stewart. After spending two years in Columbus, OH he decided Columbus wasn’t the place for
him and he ventured further north to the Motor City, Detroit, MI where he met his loving wife of
14 years, Shirley Stewart. To this union two children were born, Nicole and Jonathan. As life
partners, Henderson and Shirley were devoted to one another until her untimely death in 1982.
Henderson was a Commercial Roofer for 46 years and was an active member of Roofers Local
149. As a commercial roofer, Henderson had the opportunity to work on a vast number of
automotive plants for Chrysler, Ford and General Motors. This gave him the opportunity to see
the country from a different prospective. During his career in roofing he trained and mentored
many apprentices to become journeymen and leaders in the industry. Henderson often referred to
as “Stu” by his colleagues was known for his teamwork and drive to deliver results. One could
often here Stu say “Its hard but it fair, get it done”. He never asked anyone to perform tasking he
was not willing to do himself which resulted in workers going above and beyond the call of duty.
Many leaders of today could learn a lot from Stu’s commitment, discipline and work ethic.
When not working Henderson “PeePaw” enjoyed spending time with his family and friends
especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed cooking, watching sports and spending time talking with
neighbors on the “stoop”. He was a pillar in his community and was respected by all and often
referred to as the “God Father”. He often provided words of advice, a helping hand or a bite to eat
to many in the neighborhood.
Henderson departed his life peacefully on Monday, January 4, 2021 at Sinai Grace Hospital.
His memories will forever be cherished by his children Nicole, Jonathan (Danielle) and a special
son Lavell, three grandsons Jonathan II, Justin and Nicholas, great granddaughter Khilynn, two
sisters Alberta Dunlap of Columbus, OH and Mary Robbins of Syracuse, NY and a host of nieces,
nephews, other relatives and friends.