Lonnie Franklin Stewart

Lonnie Franklin Stewart, 80, born on September 23, 1944, embraced life with unwavering commitment and love until his unexpected passing on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Doctors Hospital. Originally hailing from Gough in Burke County, Lonnie primarily resided in the Stapleton-Wrens area of Jefferson County, where he left a lasting impact on his community.

Lonnie bravely served in the Army before embarking on a fulfilling career. His work at Air Balance in Wrens marked the beginning of his professional journey, which ultimately led him to Deerfield Specialty Paper. After 32 years of dedicated service, he retired, reflecting a life marked not only by hard work but also by resilience and dedication.

Lonnie was known for his generous spirit and dependable nature. He was a man who never met a stranger, always ready to lend a helping hand. His love for family, particularly his grandchildren, filled his heart with joy, proving that the bonds of kinship were his greatest treasure. Outside of his devotion to family, Lonnie had an adventurous side; he found happiness in fishing, watching wrestling, spending time outdoors, tinkering in his shop, and indulging in his passion for motorcycles and fast cars.

A loving husband to Peggy Jean Quick Stewart, Lonnie nurtured a beautiful family that he cherished deeply. He is also survived by his children: Dana Holmes (Isao), Lonnie Quick, and Cynthia Thigpen (Mitch). Lonnie’s legacy, a testament to his affection and devotion, shines brightly through his three grandchildren—Isao Holmes Jr. (Emily), Tiffany Holmes (Raymond), and Haley Thigpen—as well as his three great-grandchildren: Audrey Holmes, Charlotte Holmes, and Ariah Green. He also leaves behind his siblings, Geraldine Snipes (James), Sarah Snipes (George), and Terry Stewart, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and a vast circle of friends.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his grandson, Austin Thigpen, and his parents, Elizabeth Ann Arrington Stewart and Lester Sylvester Stewart. Lonnie also grieved the loss of his siblings, Evelyn Mobley, Lester Stewart, Faye Newsome, and Barbara Prescott.

Family and friends are invited to honor his life during visitation at James Funeral Home from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Wednesday evening, August 13, 2025. The funeral service will be in the James Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00 P.M. Thursday afternoon, August 14, 2025, with Rev. Ed Chance officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Moriah UMC Cemetery in Matthews. Honored to serve as pallbearers include Isao Holmes, Brian Newsome, Bill Perry, Lonnie Quick, Mark Quick, Aaron Snipes, Benji Snipes and Dylan Snipes.  Serving as honorary pallbearers will be the "Deerfield Gang".

Lonnie’s memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him. His warmth, kindness, and the significant mark he made in the lives of others will live on.