Joe Dan Stewart of Karns, TN

Joe Dan Stewart, 81 passed away at home with family on October 8, 2017. He was born in Sunbright, TN and is the oldest son of Iva Dean and C.R. “Brownie” Stewart who both preceded him in death.

Joe graduated from the University of Tennessee where he was in the ROTC and was a  member of the Golden Graduates Alumni Association. A lifelong learner, he followed his passions enthusiastically studying surveying, geology, aeronautics, Spanish, and computers, among many other subjects. He was an active member of the National Education Association, Tennessee Education Association, and Knox County Education Association. He was a member of Beaver Ridge United Methodist Church.

Joe was thoughtful and caring with a careful attention to even the smallest details. After serving in the Air Force, he began his career at Ball Camp Elementary School teaching math and science and coaching basketball before becoming the principal of Bluegrass Elementary School in Knoxville, TN where he spent most of his career. Under his leadership, Bluegrass went from being a small country school to a large and well respected suburban center. He ended his professional career as principal of Gibbs Elementary. He had great respect for the students and parents he served and sought always to be a positive influence in the community.

He leaves his beloved wife of 54 years, Sue Stewart, Karns, TN. His son, Joseph and his wife, Denise Stewart, Thousand Oaks, CA. His grandson, Zachary and his wife Kindra Stewart, Lawrenceville, GA. His grandson, Mac Stewart, Los Angeles, CA. His Granddaughter, Andersen Stewart, Thousand Oaks, CA. His brother, Clay Stewart, Harriman, TN. His brother-in-law, Roger and his wife Wilma Brown, Sunbright, TN. In addition, he is survived by many nieces and nephews and well-loved cousins.

The family will receive friends Saturday, October 14, 2017 at Schubert Funeral Home in Sunbright from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with the funeral to follow at 1:00 with Bro. Herb Judkins officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt Vernon cemetery in Sunbright, TN.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Beaver Ridge Methodist Family Life Center Fund, 7753 Oak Ride Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37931 or any Animal Humane Society of your choice.

Schubert Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.