Paul W. "Buddy" Stewart, Jr., D.D.S. returned "Home" to the Lord on Friday, May 21, 2021, following a courageous effort to live his life on his own terms, despite the ravages of vascular dementia.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of fifty years, Emma Ruth Bartholomew Stewart, who was privileged to know him practically all their lives. Left to carry on his name are their two sons, Paul W. Stewart, III (Sally Crump) of Raleigh and Chris B. Stewart and grandson, James Bartholomew "J.B." Stewart of Wilmington. Much love and support through the years have come from his beloved younger sister, Marilyn Sanders (Manley) of North Myrtle Beach, S.C. and younger brother Neal Stewart (Kelly) of Southern Pines. Katherine S. Campbell (John) and great niece Ann Clair, along with nephew Patrick Stewart round out this closely-knit family. Buddy was predeceased by his parents Paul W. Stewart, Sr. and Mary Day Stewart, long-time Louisburg residents and business owners.

Buddy was a truly gifted person; he had a true servant spirit. His keen mind and discerning eye served him well in every phase of his life. He was a gifted artist, be it carving a perfect crown or crafting beautiful 18th century mahogany furniture, or building wooden ship models. He loved being at Atlantic Beach, be it on his fishing boat "Jammin'" heading to the Big Rock, or puttering on his center console. Through the years, Buddy and Emma were able to turn a favorite beach music standard, "Far Away Places", into travel realities, both together and with friends. He lived his life to the fullest!

The only thing on his imaginary "bucket list" that he didn't get to do was learn how to fly a real airplane. He built and flew RC planes for years. Now, as the poem "High Flight" says, he has "slipped the surly bonds of Earth and touched the face of God."

Buddy practiced general dentistry for over 40 years in his hometown of Louisburg. He was much loved by his staff and patients. He gave his patients the gift of his expertise and his time and genuine concern for them. He did not seek recognition - he only wanted to help people in any way he could.

A funeral will be held on Tuesday, May 25 at 2pm at the Louisburg Baptist Church, 302 North Main Street, Louisburg, NC 27549. Visitation will follow in the Tomlinson Room at the Louisburg Baptist Church for those who feel comfortable to do so after the service, with interment in the family plot at Oakwood Cemetery, 1812 N.C. Hwy 39N, Louisburg, NC.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Person Place Preservation Society, Inc., P.O. Box 135, Louisburg, NC 27549 or the Building Fund at the Louisburg Baptist Church, P.O. Box 730, Louisburg, NC 27549.

Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, Louisburg, www.stricklandfuneralhome.net.

Paid obituary