Obituary of LeAnn Stewart

Carol LeAnn Stewart, 57, passed away after a courageous ten-year battle with cancer on Thursday, September 22, 2022 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center surrounded by those she deeply loved.

Just as spring was in full bloom, LeAnn was born on April 12, 1965 in Elkhart, Indiana to the late Elmer and Carol (Smith) Shoemaker. LeAnn excelled in school and graduated from Ross Beatty High School with high honors. It was during high school that she would meet the love of her life, Gerald Stewart.

On September 28, 1985, Gerald and LeAnn exchanged vows at Chain Lake Baptist Church in Cassopolis, Michigan, starting their journey as husband and wife. As Gerald would describe her, his “Perfect Partner”. LeAnn worked for T.R. Arnold & Associates, Inc. in the Accounting Department for many years where she also learned the German language to communicate with Canadian clients.

LeAnn is proceeded in death by her parents, Elmer Shoemaker and Carol Cradolph.

LeAnn is survived by her husband of 36 years, Gerald Stewart, her children; Brandon (Donna Spaulding) Stewart of Osceola, Indiana; Ashton (Leddrew) Smith of Cassopolis, Michigan; Olivia (William Small III) Stewart of Romeoville, Illinois; and her grandchildren; Kase Stewart, Ava Stewart, Abigail Stewart, and her faithful, four-legged furbaby, Jeter. Her siblings; Stacey (Beth) Shoemaker of Niles, Michigan; Deborah Cradolph of Jones, Michigan; and Telitha (James) Shelton of Cassopolis, Michigan; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Those fortunate enough to spend time with LeAnn, quickly learned she was genuine through and through. Her sincere and warm personality drew people to her like a magnet. She was fiercely loyal to those that she loved. Although she fought her own battle, LeAnn never wanted anyone to feel like her fight was somehow more important than their battles, that showed how selfless she was. She made those around her always feel welcomed. Her soft spoken voice always showed genuine interest, especially in those new to her family. Being surround by her, was not only peaceful, but angelic. She reaffirmed in all of us, belief that God puts us on this earth to serve out our purpose. LeAnn had a knack for getting things done and doing them with incredible efficiency that it left others scratching their head wondering how someone could accomplish so much and do it so perfectly. Whether she was planting her garden or an act of kindness, LeAnn’s mission was to make the lives of everyone around her, more beautiful.

Services to remember and celebrate the phenomenal woman she is will take place at 2 p.m., Friday, September 30, 2022 at Brown Funeral home with a time of visitation beginning one hour prior.

The next time you are at the beach with your toes in the sand, think of LeAnn, as that was one of her favorite places to be. When you see a hummingbird flying nearby, think of LeAnn. When you face struggles and things seem insurmountable, think of LeAnn and know in your heart, you can do it. Her love, strength, and genuine kindness is part of her legacy.