John Stewart

John Paul Jay Steward, longtime resident of Ponca City, passed Monday, April 4, 2011 at his home. He was 83 years of age.

Jay was born December 29, 1927 in Nocona, Texas, the son of Leonard and Lota Pemberton Stewart. He attended the Nocona area schools. He was married to Lena Corkey Brewer on July 21, 1963 at Pampa, Texas.

Jay proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a retired driller from oil and gas drilling rigs. He was best known for his gift of kindness and sharing with others. He loved his Lord, family and friends. He was a member of the Northeast Baptist Church and the Mens Adult 7 Sunday School Class. He was saved and loved his church always asking lots of questions and learning all he could.

Jay loved people very much. He never met a stranger in his life. He believed in living life, having lots of friends to visit. He loved his wife very much and wanted to make sure she would be taken care of when he was gone. They had lots of good times together. He and Corkey wanted people to know how much they enjoyed their church and friends. Having only a small family, the church family was a big part of his life too. If Jay could tell you, his words are: make sure you have found God and prepare for a wonderful life on the other side and see you all again.

He is survived by his wife, Lena Corkey, of the home grandson Bryan Gaston, granddaughter Stacy Wichersham of Elk City, Oklahoma great grandson, Colton Gaston of Canada soninlaw Mel Gaston and one brother, Burr Zachary of California. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Juanita Gaston and six brothers Roy, Bill, Alton, Jim Stewart, Foy Zachary and Ray Stewart.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 7, 2011 at Resthaven Memorial Park with Dr. Larry Nigh, Pastor of Northeast Baptist Church presiding. Arrangements are with Grace Memorial Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Northeast Baptist Church, 2200 North Pecan, Ponca City, Oklahoma 74601.