Reece Stewart Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a true outdoorsman, a man whose spirit was as free as an open sky, who took full advantage of the wonderful gift and beauty of the world that God has provided. Carl Reece Stewart passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of strength, perseverance, and a deep love of nature.

Reece was born on August 17, 1955, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and soon after moved to Florence, where he graduated from Bradshaw High School with the class of 1973. He attended the University of North Alabama, and on his first day, he met the love of his life and best friend, Sharon White, who later became his wife. After graduating with a degree in Biology and Chemistry, Reece began working as an Operator at Sheffield Utilities. He was there for thirty-five years, until an industrial accident cut his career short. His response to this trauma truly shaped the way he handled every adversity and he lived his life with strength and determination, becoming an inspiration to those around him. A faithful Christian, Reece was a member of First Baptist Church Colbert Heights.

He was preceded in death by his father, Otis Kyle Stewart; mother, Julia Ann Davis Stewart; and sister-in-law, Stephanie White Kingsley.

Along with his loving wife of fifty years, Sharon White Stewart, he is survived by his siblings, Robin Kyle Stewart (Valorie), Rita Ann Heathcock (Gary), and Regina Lynn Nelson (Steve); and numerous nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.

To know Reece was to love him. With a larger than life personality and humble heart, he made an impact on those around him. Reece and Sharon were not able to have their own, but that didn't stop Reece from fulfilling his desire to lead and mentor children. As a houseparent for Colbert Lauderdale Attention Homes, he poured his knowledge and love into the lives of many kids, mentoring and teaching them as his own children or grandchildren. It's a ministry that will last generations to come. Since then, he was involved in the lives of so many children, including his nieces and nephews. He taught them to hunt and fish. He introduced them to Mountain Men Time, teaching them about camping and pre-Civil War history. The relationships he had with them continued all through their lives. So many came to see him in his last days, wanting to let him know how much they cared for him.

In honoring his life, the family and numerous friends ask that you take a moment to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and remember him in the rustle of the trees because that is where He enjoyed the presence of God.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 14, with a visitation time for family and friends from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Colbert Heights and the service immediately following. Bro. Seth Hood will officiate.

We will not have a graveside service, therefore in lieu of flowers, we suggest memorial donations to the mission fund of Reece's church: First Baptist Church of Colbert Heights 6000 Woodmont Drive, Tuscumbia, AL 35674.

Sharon would like to express special thanks to Reece's doctors, Dr. Jonathan Parker, Dr. Jerry Williams, and Dr. Bethany Jackson for their excellent care.