November 1, 1965 – August 29, 2025 (59)
David Patrick Stewart, husband, father, father-in-law, poppy, brother, friend, naval aviator and local businessman tragically passed before his time on August 29, 2025, at the early age of 59 years old. David was a pillar not only in his local community and church, but for his family and friends across the world. A selfless and generous man who stood out as a leader, friend, and mentor on every level.
Born into a military family stationed in Bitburg, Germany, raised in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. David graduated the University of Florida receiving his BS in Nuclear Engineering and moved on to attend Florida State University where he received his Masters in Civil/Environmental Engineering, as well as attending NC State University receiving his Operations Management and Supervision Certificates. Then was commissioned in the United States Navy. Initially serving as a Nuclear Power Officer and instructor at Naval Reactors. Following this he went on to fly as a Naval Aviator and served around the world supporting the Navy’s mission of power projection as a helicopter pilot based out of Guam. He served in Operations DESERT STORM and RESTORE HOPE while supporting the FIFTH Fleet in the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf. David was instrumental as a pilot in many Search and Rescue Operations in the Pacific while in Guam and not only survived a ditching of his own helicopter but ensured all his crew were successfully rescued. Following his time in Guam, David returned to the mainland and continued to serve at Tyndall Air Force Base supporting Counter Narcotic operations in the Southeast Air Defense Sector, serving as their chief. David retired from his duties at Tyndall and entered the private sector. As a naval officer David is remembered for always placing the sailors in his charge ahead of all else. He was a mentor to them seeing that they advanced faster than their peers and that they received the timely recognition they deserved.
As a private businessman David used his leadership skills and academic acumen to find success in every business venture he touched. From Quality Assurance in pharmaceuticals to local handyman businesses, as well as oil changing businesses, they all saw thriving successes. His uncompromising standard brought him success outside the home and allowed him to build a family in North Carolina and to find true happiness with them. David was sustained by his family in Clayton and there was never anything he wouldn’t do for them. He will be missed by them beyond what words can describe here. He will also be missed by his friends as there never was there a truer friend than David Stewart. He never judged and always supported his friends and family no matter what the cost or effort. His friends still strive to be the man he was.
His military decorations include the Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Achievement Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Ribbon, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Navy Battle Efficiency Award, Expert Rifle, Expert Pistol, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon.
David is survived by his loving wife of 23 years Rebecca Day. Three daughters, Kayla and his favorite son in law Todd Langley, Elizabeth Davis, and Georgia Stewart. Three sons Patrick, Andrew, and Jackson Stewart. Grandchildren Greyson, Sable, and Colsen Langley. His brother Clay Stewart. His sister-in-law Velma Stewart, and several nieces and nephews, cousins, and elders of the Stewart family.
He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Patricia Ann Stewart, his brother John Stewart, his father-in-law Jan Houston Floyd, his grandson Jacob T. Langley, and elders of the Stewart family.
Arrangements are as follows:
Friday, September 5, 2025 at 2:00 pm a funeral service will be held at Baptist Tabernacle Church, 1599 NC-231, Wendell, NC 27591. Family will receive visitors immediately following the ceremony in the visitation hall.
Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 2:00 pm a Military Honors Ceremony will be held at Todd Cemetery, 8939 Joe Brown Highway S, Clarendon, NC 28432, where he will be interred at the family cemetery.
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves memories no one can steal.” Until we meet again, God bless the brokenhearted and be with us all the days of our lives.
In Lieu of Flowers the family request that donations be made to the Jacob T. Langley Memorial, in honor of David’s beloved late grandson Jacob Langley.
Please make all donations to: Jacob T. Langley Memorial – 109 Exeter Drive, Zebulon, NC 27597.
Romans 8:28 “ And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God to them who are the called according to His purpose.”
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