Obituary of Leslie E. Stewart


Leslie Earle Stewart, 70 years old, made an unexpected departure from his mortal home on November 19th, 2021. Leslie, fondly known as “Les”, “Stewie”, “Bellie” and “Mirror” to family and friends, was born to the late Albertha and Harold Adolphus Stewart on February 3, 1951, in Woodford St. Andrew, Jamaica West Indies. During Leslie’s early childhood, he demonstrated an innate intentionality when interacting with his family members. His forethought coupled with his creative and imaginative sensibility led him to construct go-carts to entertain his sisters, a house bell, and an intercom system for his parent’s home. Leslie also engaged in numerous family rituals such as giving his sisters piggyback rides; teaching them to climb trees and scouring lush fertile Jamaican bushes to pick mangoes and a diversity of fruits for family and friends.

Leslie was a good listener, and a strong hardworking, pragmatic man with a gentle spirit. At age 14, Leslie started to build his own home and apprenticed as an electrician. He also maintained a farm that provided a diversity of food for his family as well as supplied the coffee in the shop he managed while living in Jamaica. His hobbies included playing records and listening to music, particularly, Fats Domino.

As a father, Leslie was focused on his children pursuing their destiny. He was encouraging, proud, positive, and happy to be surrounded by his family and two children, Theresa and Wayne. His support and care enabled both of his children to successfully graduate from college. Today, Theresa is gainfully employed as a registered nurse and Wayne works in finance at one of the big four accounting firms. As Theresa was studying to become a registered nurse, Leslie acted as a valuable test patient to strengthen Theresa's confidence. Leslie is remembered for gathering all his family members to drive to Bucknell University to watch numerous events for his son Wayne. Furthermore, as an ever-present grandfather, Leslie showered Ava with gifts, love and laughter. Leslie took care working on school projects with Ava and instilling her with the confidence he fostered in his children. Leslie exemplified the term “family man” as he took all the steps to ensure his family and friends enjoyed meaningful connected family life. 

 In 2018, Leslie obtained his US citizenship. He lived in Westbury, NY until his death on November 19, 2021. Leslie is survived by his children, Theresa Greenwood and Wayne Stewart, granddaughter, Ava Greenwood, siblings Ceta (Mary) Choy, Beverly, Carol, and Denice Stewart, son-in-law, Kyle Greenwood, several cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, co-workers and friends who cherish him. He is preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Cyril, Cecil, and Joyce Stewart.