Garnet Stewart Obituary

Garnet Stewart was born in Summit, New Jersey on June 13, 1954 to the late Janeiro Green and the late Jacob Green Jr. As the eldest of four siblings, she inherited a nurturing and protective spirit early on looking after her younger siblings. Garnet's journey led her through Summit High School and on to KEAN College and Springfield College, where she honed her passion for serving others in social service and not for profit work.
In October 1981, Garnet married her lifelong life partner, the late David Lee Stewart Sr. Their union blessed them with three children: David Jr., Daryl and Atia and was a testament to love without condition.
For over three decades, Garnet dedicated her life to supporting children and families through her service in the HeadStart Program, working with community based organizations like UTCAO and The Leaguers. She worked alongside powerful black women whom she adored and revered, managing important resources in the community. Her commitment to fostering safe spaces extended beyond professional realms, as she opened her heart and home to several children and relatives in times of need.
An unapologetic believer in the Christian faith, Garnet's actions and attitude spoke volumes about her values. She lived by the principle of acceptance, treating everyone with respect irrespective of gender, affiliation, association, race, age, or social status and above all, calling "a spade, a spade".
In 2020, after various health setbacks Garnet received a precious blessing- a kidney transplant - after seven years on dialysis, a testament to her courage, resilience and the power of her faith. Her last dialysis treatment was March 14, 2020. A victory she was most proud of!
Garnet's love for her community knew no bounds. Whether it was through connecting those in need to resources and support, amplifying women's voices in leadership or advocating for marginalized people, Garnet used her voice to set the record straight regarding others - always. In retirement, Garnet's dedication to serving others remained unwavering. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, she tirelessly ensured her fellow senior citizens had the support they needed, embodying the spirit of compassion and community.
Beyond her altruism, Garnet found her greatest joy in simple pleasures-playing cards, nurturing plants, exploring flea markets, and indulging in Atlantic City's charms. She loved to travel to the islands of Puerto Rico and Jamaica and prided herself on being a Mom who took her kids to Disney World. Her love for Jersey club music, elephants, BINGO, and seafood mirrored her authentically Jersey girl persona.
She is preceded in passing by her husband the late David Stewart Sr. and brothers Sheldon, Marvin, Clyde and Jacob Green III. She leaves to honor her legacy, two sons David Jr. and Daryl, one daughter, Atia Stewart, her granddaughter, Noah C. Paige, her sisters, Sydney and Barbara (Al), one brother in love, Derrick, her nephew, Sheldon Jr., her goddaughter, Erica (Siheem) and a village of extended family, friends, chosen children and all who had the privilege to know and love her.
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