The Reverend David Sebastian Stewart was born on April 20, 1952, to the late Barney McGustavus Stewart and Christine Elizabeth Payne Stewart.

David's educational journey began in Lynchburg City Schools and culminated in a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Lynchburg College (now the University of Lynchburg). A lifetime learner, he held a deep passion for reading and words—an interest that remained constant throughout his life.

His love for country was demonstrated through his dedicated service in the United States Army, where he served with bravery and honor during the Vietnam War. During his military service, he was awarded the following decorations:

·        National Defense Service Medal

·        Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars

·        Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal

·        Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm

·        Good Conduct Medal

·        Expert Marksmanship Badge (Rifle)

God's call upon David's life was evident from a young age. His siblings fondly remembered how, after Sunday services at Court Street Baptist Church, he would gather them and re-preach the sermon they had just heard. This early calling would shape his life and lead to more than 40 years of faithful ministry.

David was known as a "teaching pastor." He believed that God's Word was not just for information, but for transformation. He often quoted, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge," and made it his mission to equip God's people with a clear and practical understanding of Scripture. He studied to show himself "approved…rightly dividing the Word of truth" for all who heard him.

He began his pastoral journey in 1986 at Mt. Airy Baptist Church in Nelson County, Virginia. In 1988, he accepted the call to Chestnut Grove Baptist Church in Amherst County, and in 1997, he began his final pastorate at Holcomb Rock Baptist Church in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he faithfully served until retirement and was honored with the title Pastor Emeritus..

Outside of ministry, David also served his community through employment at Old Dominion Job Corps Center, Prince George's County Private Industry Council, and New Land Jobs.

David dearly and deeply loved his family and often said, "Family takes care of family." His memory will be forever cherished by his beloved wife of 40 years, Diane Saunders Stewart, and their four children, Amy (J.D.) Snead and Kimberlie (Sammy) Mason of Lynchburg, VA; David (Lisa) Stewart, II of Mt. Juliet, TN; and Simone Stewart of Lynchburg, VA.

He was a devoted grandfather to Caleb and Landon Snead, Joseph Stewart-Branch, Chad and Deon Mason, Alexia (Lexy) Mendoza), and Ethan Brinley.

He is also survived by his loving sisters: Dianne (Melvin) Simms of Omaha, NE; Sheila (Clyde) Trent of Lynchburg, VA; Lula Stewart of Omaha, NE; and Robin Stewart of Durham, NC.

David was blessed with dear sisters-in-law: Jacqueline (Jackie) S. Hubbard of Charlotte, NC; Jan Ragland and Kim Blue, both of Oviedo, FL.

He was a proud uncle to 12 nephews and 8 nieces, and a beloved great-uncle to 12 great-nephews, 12 great-nieces, one great-great nephew, and one great-great niece.

He held a special place in his heart for his goddaughter, Natahlia Hubbard Alicea, of Orlando, FL, her husband, Santos Alicea, and their three children: Eli, Marrianna, and Mikayla, whom he lovingly embraced.

He is also survived by his cherished friend and "brother," Donnie Dee, of Orangevale, CA, whose decades-long bond with David was a constant source of laughter, support, and shared faith—a true companion in both life and the Lord. In their younger years, the two shared a love of music, often harmonizing with friends beneath the streetlights, filling the neighborhood nights with song and joy. They sang heartfelt renditions of classics by The Temptations and their favorite, "Stay in My Corner" by The Dells—melodies that became the soundtrack of their friendship and a cherished memory for all who heard them.

He also leaves behind a host of beloved cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who were touched by his wisdom, laughter, and unwavering love. Their lives are richer for having known him, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who called him family and friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Barney and Christine Stewart, his grandson, Benjamin Stewart, and his brother-in-law, Calesta (Cal) W. Saunders, Sr.

In honor of Reverend Stewart's favorite color, the family is wearing red accessories to celebrate his life and legacy—symbolizing not only love and strength, but the redemptive power of the blood of Jesus.

A homegoing celebration will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Holcomb Rock Baptist Church. A visitation will be held from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Monday, June 09, 2025, at Davis-Turner Funeral Service. Interment will be in the Fort Hill Burial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in David's memory to Holcomb Rock Baptist Church, 5184 Boonsboro Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503; or Gentle Shepherd Hospice, donations can be made online at www.gentleshepherdhospice.com or mailed to:

Gentle Shepherd Hospice

6045 Peters Creek Road

Roanoke, VA 24019

You may also consider donating to a charity of your choice that reflects the values David lived by—faith, compassion, and service to others.