Royce Stewart, age 87, passed away suddenly on Friday, June 19, 2026. He will be remembered by his deep faith, steady leadership, quick sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

 Royce was a 67-year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 295, where he faithfully served for 28 years as President. He was an active member of Local Union 295's retired members club, where you could always count on his entertaining stories. His work and service reflected the values he lived by-integrity, commitment, and caring for others. 

A man rooted in faith, Royce was ordained as a deacon at Sunset Lane Baptist Church and later served as a deacon at Oak Park Baptist Church from February 2007 until his death. He was known for his heartfelt prayers, his ability to make people smile with a well-timed joke, and the warmth he brought to every room. 

Royce also enjoyed the quieter things in life, especially writing poems, a gift that reflected his thoughtful heart and the way he noticed and appreciated the people around him. He found joy in working in his garden and sharing what he grew with family and friends. Royce also loved sports-especially the Arkansas Razorbacks and the St. Louis Cardinals-and he enjoyed cheering them on with the same loyalty he gave to everything in life. 

Royce was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Ovalene Allen and Wynema Owens; his great-granddaughter, Addison Childers; his twin brother, Reece Stewart; and his beloved wife of 60 years, Zella Marie Stewart. 

He is survived by his son, Michael Stewart (Shelley) of Memphis; his daughter, Terri Ballard (Jerry) of Benton; and his grandchildren Tiffani Childers, Lyndsey Hedger, Chris Gestvang and Jessie Stewart. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren: Colton Childers, Harper Childers, Kendall Weatherford, Owen Hedger, Olive Hedger, and Evelyn Gestvang, along with other relatives, friends, and church family who will miss him deeply. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Oak Park Baptist Church at 8200 Flintridge Road, Little Rock, AR 72210.  A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 12:00 P.M with visitation starting one hour prior at Oak Park Baptist Church with burial follow at Pincrest Memorial Park.