Samuel “Sam, SJ, Sonny” J.  Stewart, Jr, age 81, of Brookville, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 18, 2025, at AHN of Wexford Hospital in Wexford, PA. He was born in Punxsutawney, PA, on November 18, 1943, to the late Samuel J. and Thelma L. (Wheeler) Stewart, Sr.

Sam graduated from Punxsutawney High School in Punxsutawney, PA, with the class of 1962. He served his country with pride in the United States Army Reserve.

Sam was employed as a fieldman for National Fuel Gas Company in Brookville, PA for over thirty years before retiring in 1995. Sam married Judith Ann (Harriger) Stewart on May 7, 1966; she survives.

Sam attended the Church of God in Brookville, PA and held a lifetime membership with the American Simmental Association.

For numerous years, Sam coached girls’ softball teams, was extremely supportive, and had an in-depth understanding of the game. He enjoyed his times with the Breakfast Club, surrounded by friends and family. Sam leaves behind a lasting legacy with Stewart Simmental, which will be continued on by his son and grandsons.

Sam was a loving father, adoring grandpa and great grandpa. He especially loved any time spent with his children and grandchildren. Sam was a well-liked individual who could easily engage in conversation with almost anyone. Above all, his beloved family meant everything to him. Those who knew and loved Sam will forever remember him in their hearts.

In addition to his wife Judith, Sam is survived by four children; Andrea (Mark Ward) Blair of  Sigel, PA, Sherry (Anthony) Pawlowski of Fernandina Beach, FL, Polly (Trevor) Smith of Johnstown, PA, Greg (Nicole) Stewart of Halifax, PA; eleven grandchildren; Bryan and Tanner Blair, Tommy (Chelsie) Richardson and Emily (Matt) Chupp, Levi, Lexi, Lakin and Ella Smith, Grady, Grant, and Owen Stewart; two great-grandchildren; Camryn and Cailey Richardson; six siblings; Caroline (Harp) Smith, David (Rose Ann) Stewart, Ken Stewart, Jerry (Deb) Stewart, Vern (Mary Ann) Stewart, and Howard (Trishi) Stewart; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.                       

Sam was preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends will be received for a visitation on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 9 – 10 am, at the Brookville Church of God, 201 Freedom Lane, Brookville, PA 15825.  A memorial service will follow the visitation, beginning at 10:00 am, also at the church, and officiated by Pastor Phil Conklin.

Memorial contributions may be made in Sam’s name to the Upper Dauphin 4-H Livestock, 504 Ridge Rd., Halifax, PA 17032. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Carrier Funeral Home, 2834 Maplevale, Rd., Brookville, PA 15825. Please visit our website at www.carrierfh.com to find more information or place online condolences.