Cover for James C. Stewart's Obituary

James C. Stewart

Aug 2, 1954 — Aug 27, 2026

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James C. Stewart, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 27, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 2, 1954, in Gowanda, NY, James was a man of steadfast character and unyielding kindness, always ready to lend a helping hand, especially to those he held dear.

James served honorably in the US Army during the early 1970s and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, where he developed a deep appreciation for different cultures and experiences. Following his military service, James dedicated his professional life to the automotive industry, serving as a long-time manager at Plattsburgh Motor Service in Saranac Lake and later at Advanced Auto, before retiring from SUNY Plattsburgh in 2018. His career was marked by dedication and a commitment to excellence, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike.

On January 6, 1979, James married the love of his life, Naoma, at Our Lady of Grace Church in Woodlawn, NY. Their 47 years of marriage were filled with love, laughter, and a shared devotion to family. Together, they raised two sons, James R. Stewart and Thomas Stewart, who, along with their partners Nicole Jerdo and Samantha Stewart, brought immense joy and pride to James's life.

James was a passionate outdoorsman who found peace in the early morning tranquility of hunting and fishing. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of classic cars and was especially fond of his salmon-colored Mercury Cougar. A true aficionado of Pink Floyd, you could always tell when James was on his way by the unmistakable sound of their music playing.

He was blessed with five grandchildren: Matthew Stewart and his wife Hailey, Caleb Stewart and his wife Kristalyn, Pike Beaney, Sierra Stewart and her fiancé Luke Poupore, and Kallista Kipp. James delighted in their accomplishments and cherished every moment spent with them.

James will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the gentle spirit that touched the lives of many. His family and friends will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Calling hours will take place at the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday September 9, 2026. Military Honors, honoring James's life will take place at 6:45 PM at the funeral home. The family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of their choice in James's memory.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)

Fortune - Keough Funeral Home

20 Church St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Military Honors

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Starts at 6:45 pm (Eastern time)

Fortune-Keough Funeral Home

20 Church Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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