06/02/2026
Obituary for David Stewart:
David Stewart, age 70, of Clinton, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at his residence.
David was born on August 23, 1955, in Clay County, Kentucky, to the late Manford Stewart and Ophie Grubb Smith. A devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church in Oak Ridge, David will be remembered as a faithful Christian man whose life reflected his love for the Lord, his family, and his community.
A lifelong advocate for education, David graduated from Clay County High School in 1973, attended Cumberland College, and later earned his master’s degree from Tennessee Technological University. He dedicated his professional life to serving the students, teachers, and families of Anderson County. David began his career at Lake City Elementary School before moving to Lake City Middle School as a teacher. His passion for education and leadership led him to serve as Principal of Norwood Middle School for many years, and he later returned to Lake City Elementary School, where he retired as Principal.
Throughout his career, David made a lasting impact on countless young lives. Whether in the classroom, the principal's office, or the hallways of his schools, he was known for his encouragement, guidance, and unwavering commitment to helping students succeed. He believed every child deserved an opportunity to learn and grow, and he took great pride in supporting both students and teachers alike.
His dedication to young people extended well beyond the school day. David served as the Anderson County High School boys’ basketball coach and later Lake City Middle School boys’ basketball coach for several years, mentoring student-athletes and teaching lessons that reached far beyond the game. He was also a referee for TSSAA athletic contests, earning the respect of coaches, players, and fellow officials throughout the region. Even on weekends, David remained committed to serving others as a mail carrier in Andersonville.
A proud Kentuckian at heart, David was a passionate and lifelong fan of the University of Kentucky Wildcats. Whether watching a game from home or discussing the Wildcats with friends and family, his love for Kentucky athletics was evident to all who knew him.
While David found fulfillment in his faith, career, and community involvement, his greatest joy was always his family. Above all else, he cherished the time spent with those he loved. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and some of his happiest moments were those spent creating memories with them. His love, guidance, and presence will continue to be felt in his family's lives for generations to come.
David leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, leadership, and love. He touched countless lives through his work in education, athletics, and the community, but his greatest legacy will be the love he shared with his family and the example he set for all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, David was also preceded in death by his loving wife, Rebecca Stewart, and his brothers, Lynn Stewart, Boone Smith, and Ledford Stewart.
He is survived by his daughter, Jill Stewart of Clinton; son, Brian Stewart & wife Carrie of Powell; grandchildren, Jaden and Sophia Stewart of Powell, and Tate Wilder of Clinton; brother, Leo Stewart & wife Jeanne of Manchester, KY; sisters, Ann Owens & husband Jerry of Manchester, KY, Rachel Sizemore, and Carol Napier both of Mill Creek, KY; brother-in-law, V.L. Stonecipher & wife Pat of Clinton; sisters-in-law, Beverly Gray of Manchester, KY and Wilma Stonecipher of Clinton; along with several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 11:00-1:00 pm, Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow in the chapel. David’s graveside will immediately follow at Oak Ridge Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to Clay County High School Basketball, 415 Clay County High Rd., Manchester, KY 40962. Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of all arrangements. Holleygamble.com