It is with profound sadness, yet a heart full of gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the home-going of Nancy Lynne Stewart. Nancy left this world unexpectedly on April 24, 2026, at the age of 78, due to a sudden brain bleed. Though her departure was sudden, she leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Born on April 6, 1948, in Mattoon, Illinois, Nancy was the beloved daughter of Marilynn Ruth McDowell and John Thomas Oschwald. Later in life, she was warmly loved by her step-father, Henry Merrifield. Her early years were spent in the embrace of a family that nurtured her spirit and instilled in her the values she carried throughout her life.

Nancy's journey was marked by her deep love and partnership with her devoted husband, Louis Vance Stewart. The couple celebrated 58 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love and commitment to one another. Married on April 4, 1968, Nancy and Louis raised two remarkable children, Angel Love Meagher and Daniel Travis Stewart, who both followed a path of service as missionaries, a fact that brought Nancy immense pride and joy.

A graduate of Greenville College, Nancy earned her Bachelor's degree in Sociology and embarked on a diverse career. She initially worked as a waitress, and later took on the role of a house mother for juvenile delinquents in Illinois. Her compassion and dedication to nurturing young lives continued as she transitioned to work as a Day Care Director in Florida. Her career evolved into training daycare workers before she spent 15 years as a head bank teller. Upon retirement, Nancy continued her mission-driven life, working with her son’s outreach ministry in Ocala and serving alongside her daughter in India and her son in Jamaica.

Nancy's faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her every step. She was actively involved in church ministries, both in a paid and voluntary capacity, throughout her life. Her most recent membership was at Idlewild Baptist Church, where she devoted herself to The Loft 181 foster care and rescued children ministry. Her faith was not just a belief but a lifestyle that she joyfully shared with others.

Nancy's greatest joy was her family. She was the proud grandmother of six grandchildren, to whom she was a source of wisdom, love, and laughter. Her home was a haven of hospitality, where she welcomed all with warmth and a quick wit. Nancy was known for her humor and her ability to make everyone feel at home, though she jokingly threatened unruly children with a switch to their backside. Her generous spirit and open heart made her a beloved figure in her family and community.

In her leisure time, Nancy delighted in reading, playing games, and doing puzzles. She cherished every moment spent with her family and loved visiting with friends. Her life was a testament to the beauty of simple pleasures and the joy found in the company of loved ones.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Louis; her sister, Barbara Kay Randolph; her daughter, Angel Love Meagher; her son-in-law, Mathew Meagher; her son, Daniel Travis Stewart; her daughter-in-law, Yvonne Stewart; and her six grandchildren. She is predeceased by her mother, Marilynn Ruth McDowell, her father, John Thomas Oschwald, and her step-father, Henry Merrifield.

A memorial service to celebrate Nancy's life will be held on April 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Idlewild Baptist Church, located at 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd, Lutz, FL 33548. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in honor of missions to Jesus Way International, designating "JWI-Meagher," at www.servantsinternational.help, OR to The Jesus Way, Inc. at https://www.paypal.me/thejesu…  to continue Nancy's legacy of faith and service.

As we remember Nancy, let us be inspired by her life of love and service. Her legacy of faith, family, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

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