Barbara Ann Stewart

Barbara Ann Stewart, 77, transitioned peacefully to her heavenly home on June 3, 2015, following a prolonged illness. Her husband, Howard "Scoop" Stanley Stewart, predeceased her on January 7, 2014. Born November 26, 1937, in Frederick, MD, she was the daughter of the late Otis and Mildred Bell.

"BarbAnn," as she was affectionately known, was a life-long Fredericktonian. A graduate of Lincoln High School in Frederick, MD, she treasured her community, especially her South Street Family. BarbAnn loved to travel with family and friends and, most recently, took a cruise to the Bahamas with her daughter, Gretchen, and granddaughter, Taren. For many years, she and her late husband worked side by side as owners and operators of the Amvets Post No. 5 on West All Saint Street, a well-known social gathering spot for locals. She was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church.

A quiet and gentle spirit, she was known for her quick wit and sense of humor. Even in her last days, she found the strength to give you a smile and say or do something that would make you laugh. She was also a trusted counselor as many turned to her for sound advice and support on life and personal issues. In her spare time, BarbAnn loved to play cards, play the slot machines at the local casinos, and spend time with family and friends. Gretchen and Taren, whom she loved and adored, were the core of her existence. Perhaps her greatest joys were: Taren's graduation from law school and her wedding to Sidney; her grandson Chase's graduation from the Fire Academy; and her son-in-law Barry's career accomplishments. BarbAnn was generous and kind and so giving of her time and love to her family and friends.

She is survived by a loving and faithful daughter, Gretchen Stanton (Barry), Upper Marlboro, MD; two step daughters, Nancy K. Newman Shabaz, York, PA, and Raelynn Barnett, York, PA; one granddaughter, Taren Butcher (Sidney), Hanover, MD; five step-grandchildren, Chase Barnett, Dallastown, PA, Dawn Newman, Frederick, MD, Danyiell Newman and Sonya Newman, Pennsylvania, and Mark Newman, New York, NY; three sisters, Betty Jean Goines and Catherine Bell of Frederick and Shirley Blango, Philadelphia, PA; one aunt, Anita Neal, Rockville, MD; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends; guardian angels, Barbara and Antonio Bowens; and neighbors, Richard and Maureen Surdez.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Harold Bell, and a devoted friend, Carol Duckett.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2015, at Asbury United Methodist Church, 101 W. All Saints St., Frederick, MD. Viewing is at 9 a.m., family will receive friends at 10 a.m. and the funeral will begin at 11 a.m. Rev. Dr. LaDelle Brooks officiating. Interment is at Fairview Cemetery.