Deaconess Leatha Nowlin Stewart, 93 years old, earned her wings as she transitioned peacefully at her residence, 414 S. Marion Ave., Covington, Virginia, on Saturday, August 27, 2022, with her family by her bedside. She was born on Wednesday, February 6, 1929, in Covington to the parents of the Late Deacon Alex and Jennie Nowlin.
Deaconess Stewart was preceded in death by her parents, 7 sisters: Hazel, Theresa, Gladys, Alberta, Elise, Easter, and Gloria and 3 brothers: Leroy, Otha and Lenzia, a son-in-law: Tommy Sampson, two grandchildren: William Stewart and Bryan Palmer. A very close friend, Mr. Thomas Dickerson, Sr.
Deaconess Stewart was married to the Late Dennie Stewart and together they had eight children: Curtis, Carolyn, Rosetta, Leonard, James, Darlene, Deborah, and Cora.
Deaconess Stewart was baptized at First Baptist Church at an early age and remained a dedicated, devoted and very active member until her death. She loved singing in the choir. She also participated in many auxiliaries and served as President of the Missionary Society and was honored with the title, President Emeritus. She was instrumental in creating a building fund collection jar where she personally stood in front of the church on Sunday mornings and collected donations.
Deaconess Stewart received her education at the former Watson High School. Although she did not graduate, she had a desire to receive a high school diploma. So, at the age of 55, she enrolled in a GED Program studied hard, made good grades, and received her GED Certificate in 1984.
Deaconess Stewart started her work career as a domestic worker. Later, she was hired as a dishwasher at the Alleghany Hospital in Rosedale. Known for her loyalty, smartness, punctuality, friendliness, and just being a hard worker, she was promoted to work in the lab as a venipuncturist at the new LewisGale Hospital in Low Moor where she retired after 25 years of service.
Deaconess Stewart was loved and respected by her family, friends, neighbors, and pastor. She will be remembered for her wonderful bright smiling face. She was a loving person full of laughter, jokes, and humor. She was also quick-witted, creative, and lots of fun to be around.
Deaconess Stewart was a dedicated, loving, and caring mother. She leaves to cherish her memories her children: Curtis (Priscilla), Carolyn Palmer (James), Rev. Rosetta Stewart, Leonard (Leah), James (Eleanor), Darlene Stewart, Deborah Sampson, Cora Poteat (James) and T. L. Dickerson; 18 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and her last surviving Nowlin sibling and youngest brother: Rev. Charles R. (Sandra) Nowlin, Sr., goddaughter, Jackie (Andrew) Hobson, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great-nephews, cousins and close friends.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 1:00 pm at First Baptist Church Covington. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Covington.
Condolences and flowers can be sent to Serenity Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 126 Gilmer Ave., Roanoke, VA 24016, email:dsteele40@yahoo.com, Phone No.: (540)345-9100 and to the Stewart Family at 414 South Marion Avenue, Covington, VA 24426.
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