Leo E. Stewart

It is with great sadness that the Stewart family announces the passing of Leo Edward Stewart, 87, of Petersburg, IL. Leo passed the morning of January 29, 2025, at his home. He was born on December 9, 1937, in Menard County, IL, the fifth child to Arthur “Buck” and Helen (Duncheon) Stewart. Leo was a graduate of Petersburg Harris High School in 1956. He married Shirley Lee Fawns on September 27, 1958, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Petersburg where they remained faithful parishioners while living in IL. They celebrated 66 years of marriage together. Leo is survived by his wife Shirley; his children and their spouses—Victoria (Robert) Blackburn, Greg (Kathy) Stewart, and Kathy (Andrew) Moehlenpah; his grandchildren and their spouses—Matt (Katie) Stewart, Megan (Tommy) Branagh, Katie (Andrew) Carpenter, Amanda Moehlenpah, Alexi (Colt) Pierce, Daniel Moehlenpah, Hannah Blackburn, and Abby Blackburn. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren; Caleb, Eli, Isaac, and Lucy Stewart and Grayson Carpenter. Leo had three family members named after him: his son, Gregory Edward Stewart, his grandson, Matthew Edward Stewart, and his great, great nephew, Leo George Stewart. Leo is survived by two sisters: Rosemary Miller and Joyce (husband-David Nelson) Stewart, his sister-in-law, Betty Stewart, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers Arthur “Buddy” Stewart and John “Jack” Stewart and his sisters Catherine “Katie” Umphlett, and Dorethea “Dottie” Campbell. Leo lived an extraordinary life. After high school graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served in the Illinois Air National Guard, married the love of his life, Shirley, and had three wonderful children. Knowing the farm couldn’t sustain multiple brothers, he decided to enter sales, climbing the corporate ladder at FS Growmark to become General Manager at the age of 33. Leo and Shirley moved throughout Illinois and Iowa, serving the farming communities in the corn belt. After retiring at the age of 59, he devoted his time to serving his community by being an active member of the Knights of Columbus, managing fish fries and the church finances, and keeping the parish hall clean and orderly. He also spent significant time with each of his priests at St. Peter’s, providing for their personal needs and developing deep relationships. He loved feeding cattle, helping with harvest, winning pinochle games, and keeping his lawn and acre- sized garden pristine. His dedication to and love for his children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren was evident to anyone who knew him. His family, faith, and immense generosity are his legacies. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated by Father James Palakudy on February 13, 2025, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Petersburg. Visitation is from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Celebration of Life Mass. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery and reception at Wankel Farms Channel Seed, 18239 Kelly St, Petersburg, IL 62675. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Leo’s memory to St. Peter Catholic Church, 711 S. 6th St., Petersburg, IL 62675 or to ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Hurley Funeral Home in Petersburg is assisting the family with arrangements.

Leo E. Stewart

December 9, 1937 - January 29, 2025

Explore Obituaries &
Upcoming Services