🌸 Celebrating the Life of Kathleen A. Stewart

April 17, 1931 – August 4, 2025

Kathleen A. Stewart, lovingly known as "Mo," passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on Monday, August 4, 2025, in her Hampton, Virginia home, surrounded by family. Just days earlier, she was filled with joy and laughter at the 85th family reunion in North Carolina—a testament to the vibrant spirit she carried throughout her life.

Born on April 17, 1931, to Mary Lillian Cockerham and William Parks, Kathleen was raised by Mary Cockerham Wilborn and Olden Wilborn until his untimely passing when she was just seven years old. Even as a child, Kathleen displayed remarkable resilience and maturity, stepping into a caregiver role for her younger siblings—cooking, cleaning, and nurturing with quiet strength.

As a young woman, Kathleen made the bold decision to move to New York in pursuit of better opportunities to support her family. There, she met the love of her life, Master Sergeant Harlon J. Stewart. Their union blossomed into 60 beautiful years of marriage, filled with devotion, laughter, and shared purpose, until his passing in 2013.

Together, they raised four children—Kathy Diana, Sheila, Harlon Jr., and Arnold—and embraced a beloved stepdaughter, Edith Preiss. Kathleen's life as a military spouse took her across the globe, with homes in Mississippi, Colorado, the Philippines (twice), Virginia, and Missouri. Wherever she went, she brought warmth, leadership, and service—whether as a Girl Scout leader, president of the NCO Wives Club, or a dedicated volunteer with the American Red Cross.

After Harlon's retirement from the Air Force, the couple settled in West Hempstead, NY, where Kathleen became a pillar of Shiloh Baptist Church in Rockville Centre. For over two decades, she served faithfully, including as president of the Nurses Unit, always offering her time and heart to those in need.

Their final move brought them to Hampton, Virginia, where Kathleen found a spiritual home at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Drawn to its compassion, charity, and unwavering commitment to God's word, she became an active member for more than 25 years. Her ministry work was extensive and heartfelt—serving in these Ministries: Military, Ushers, Seniors, Widows, and the 90's Club. She especially loved visiting nursing homes, bringing small gifts and big smiles to fellow members.

Kathleen was a woman of many gifts. She was a talented singer, jewelry maker, seamstress, and co-owner of the Harlon Vending Machine business. Her culinary legacy lives on in the memories of her sweet potato biscuits, pies, pound cakes, fried rice, BBQ ribs, collard greens, and cabbage—each dish made with love and care, always mindful of her family's allergies and preferences.

She will be remembered as the heart and anchor of her family: strong yet gentle, firm yet compassionate, endlessly creative, and deeply faithful. Her radiant smile lit up every room, and her love for her family and the Lord was unwavering.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband, Harlon Stewart; her sons, Arnold Stewart and stepdaughter Edith Preiss; her brother, Charles Wilborn; and her son-in-law, Donald Batson.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in her children: Kathy Diana Blackwell (New York, NY), Sheila Batson (West Hempstead, NY), and Harlon Stewart Jr.;one sister Lona Bailey(Patchoque,NY) ten grandchildren—James Stewart, Rahsaan Glenn, Jamaal Glenn (Yamile), Aiysha Glenn-Bradby, Chrysti Friar, Joey Stewart, Ramsey Edmonds, Brian Gayle, and Yvette Smith (Charles); 21 great-grandchildren; cherished first cousins James and Ann; dear friends Rita Carney and Delores Whitfield; devoted nurse, companion, and friend Leslie Smith; and a host of extended family and friends.

Viewing will be from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at the funeral home.  Funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 171 Semple Farm Road, Hampton, VA  23666.  O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.