Robert Gene Stewart, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on May 18, 1946, Gene lived a full life centered around his strong faith, his cherished family, and his passions.

A lifelong resident of Springfield, MO, Gene was a man of many loves-most notably, his family whom he adored fiercely. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney Stewart, and Mary Stewart. He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen Busby Stewart, and their two children, Jeff Stewart and Jennifer Stewart. He welcomed daughter-in-law Caroline Stewart into the family with open arms and found joy in the laughter of his grandchildren: Jeffrey Stewart, Meghan Turnbull (along with her husband, Lucas), Macy Stewart, Ian Stewart, and great-granddaughter Palmer Kate Turnbull, who brought light into his life for 11 weeks before he passed away.

Gene treasured the camaraderie of his siblings, Bill Stewart (Sue), Barbara Joann Dahlman, and Debbie Hall, and kept close ties with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Gene loved his Lord and Savior. Next was his family. He was happiest when the kids were all at his home laying on the floor chatting. He loved to play games, Five Crowns and Bingo were recent favorites. He also loved to win! He and his daughter in law had quite the competition going.

Professionally, Gene dedicated 37 years to Glenstone Block Company, where he was not only a Vice President but also a mentor and friend to his employees. He always took a personal interest in each one. He approached work with passion and integrity, always seeking to uplift those around him. He strived to be not just a boss but a friend.

In addition to his work, Gene had a zest for life that was evident in his many hobbies. A true racing enthusiast, he found joy in attending NASCAR events. He would go every chance he got. He loved old cars. He was most proud of the 55 Chevy he restored that was on blocks with trailer tires when he bought it. He loved Corvettes. He and his wife had at least 11 over their marriage. Karen said she fell for him because of his Corvette.

Gene loved the beach and tried to go every year. He especially loved when he and Karen could stay for a month. That was his happy place. He loved to go on cruises and they went on 14 over the years. Some were just him and Karen but he especially loved going with family or his Sunday School class. Gene’s heart for service shone brightly through his involvement in his church community, almost 25 years ago, at a church fireworks display at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, Gene said they should start a new Sunday School Class. There were 6 people who agreed to help if he did. The New Generation Faith Family was started. It truly is a family, not just a class. They have been together through thick and thin, good times and bad times. The class averaged around 65 but, with age, has lost many members. This tightly-knit group, which weathered life’s trials together, reflects Gene’s enduring legacy of love and support for others.

Gene always loved helping people. It is one of the things his children admired most about him. He organized numerous workdays raking yards, cleaning or building things for people. They were always helping someone. Precious memories.

Gene found out in 2008 that he had Parkinson’s Disease but refused to let it slow him down. In 2019, his symptoms began to worsen and he started to decline. He drove Karen crazy because he refused to slow down and she would literally have to carry him into the house when he couldn’t go anymore. He did this until 2 weeks before he passed. It wasn’t always easy for the people watching him, but everyone was happy to see him fight Parkinson’s and win. Gene’s indomitable spirit shone brightly until his final days. His refusal to slow down even as his condition progressed exemplified his determination and love for life, a quality his family admired deeply.

The family will host a Visitation Friday  evening at 6:00 – 8:00 PM, allowing friends and family to gather in celebration of his life. A Funeral Service will be held the following day, September 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM, at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, burial will follow in Pleasant Hope Cemetery.

As we remember Gene, let us take his message to heart: seek a personal relationship with Christ, and cherish the moments spent with loved ones. Though he has left this world, his spirit, love, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Gene eagerly awaits the reunion with all who seek him on the other side.

Rest in peace, dear Gene. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.