Thomas Stewart Obituary

Thomas Jay Stewart, 85, of Mount Vernon, formerly of Crestline, passed unexpectedly on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Tom was born on September 24, 1939, in Midland, Michigan to the late Dwight and Elma "Meta" (Green) Stewart. On March 3, 1962, he would marry Carol (O'Donnell) Stewart, and Carol would proceed Tom in death on May 13, 2012. Later in life, Tom would find love again, as he would marry Ruth Treen, Ruth survives in Mount Vernon. Tom proudly served in the United States Army during peacetime and remained committed to service throughout his life, becoming a faithful member of the Knights of Columbus. A man of deep faith and strong community ties, he shared his love for music by singing in the men's choir for over 40 years. A lifelong educator, Tom devoted 32 years to teaching at Crestline Schools and continued to serve students for an additional eight years in part-time roles at area schools. His influence extended far beyond the classroom-he spent decades coaching and mentoring young athletes. Tom led the swimming program at Colonel Crawford High School, and also coached basketball, and track, at Crestline. He was instrumental in founding the Crestline Cross Country program, further shaping the lives of student-athletes with his dedication and leadership. As a driving force behind the creation of the Crestline Coaches Hall of Fame, Tom was later honored with his own induction in May of 2017-a fitting tribute to a man who inspired so many both on and off the field. Tom approached life with energy, humility, and grace. He had a deep love for ballroom dancing and a special fondness for big band and swing music-his steps often matching the rhythm of the melodies he so enjoyed. He found peace and satisfaction in his woodworking projects, where he combined patience and creativity to craft pieces with care. Whether dancing, gardening, golfing, or sharing a story, Tom embraced each day with purpose and joy. An avid reader and talented writer, Tom was also a published author who found fulfillment in reflection and creativity. A proud Notre Dame and Ohio State fan, he followed the Fighting Irish and Buckeyes with unshakable loyalty - Tom thoroughly enjoyed routing on both of his beloved teams with his grandsons in this past years National Championship game. Known for his tireless work ethic, kind heart, and genuine care for others, Tom leaves behind a legacy of service, mentorship, and love. His memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Left to cherish Tom's memories are his children: Scott (Bridgette) Stewart of Groveport, and Lisa (Andy) Sloan of Pataskala; grandchildren: Thomas Stewart, Stephanie (Mark Kollar) Stewart, Ryan (Paige) Stewart, Jacob (Caroline) Sloan, and Kenny Sloan; great-grandsons: Ryan and Mason Stewart; step-children: Saunja Treen-Smith, Dale (Rhonda) Treen, and Bryan (Daleen) Treen; many other cherished loved ones and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and loving wife, Tom was preceded in death by his siblings: Helen Wilkes, Pat Fahrer, and Delores Stewart. Friends may call on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at the Gompf Funeral Service - Crestline Chapel, 223 W. Main St., Crestline. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 331 North Thoman St., Crestline, with Father Jeff Smith, Celebrant. Burial with Full Military Honors will take place on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 2:30pm at West Rushville Cemetery, West Rushville, Ohio. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church or to Tunnels to Towers Foundation. Those wishing to share a memory of Tom or send condolences to the Stewart Family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com. The Gompf Funeral Service - Crestline Chapel, 223 W. Main St. Crestline, is honored to serve the family of Thomas Jay Stewart. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Jay Stewart, please visit our floral store.