David "Mark" Stewart, Sr.

 

David “Mark” Stewart, Sr., 56, passed away on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. He was born in Biloxi on September 9, 1966 as the oldest child of John Stewart, Jr. and Carolyn Parker Stewart. He grew up in Ocean Springs and began working on his father’s shrimp boat, “Toni Diane”, as a teenager. It was here that he fell in love with being on the water and realized his passion as a 3rd generation Shrimp Boat Captain. In his years on the water, Mark owned and operated commercial fishing boats “Southern Pride”, and “Charlotte and Roger”. More recently, he owned and operated Stewart Seafood Market with his son, David, in Vancleave and advocated for the Gulf Seafood Industry and the support of local fishermen. Mark graduated from Ocean Springs High School in 1984. Affectionately known by his friends as “Big Mark”, he was a true friend and confidant. At a height of 6’4”, he was soft-hearted and known by most as a gentle giant, but he was a fierce defender of those he loved. His strength and stature never went unnoticed and his strong will and determination served him well in his hard-fought battle with cancer. Mark was very generous and always willing to lend a helping hand. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

Mark was preceded in death by his father, John Stewart, Jr. and grandparents, John Stewart, Sr., Myrle Blackwell Stewart, Clara Jean Buckley Courville (Allen), and Robert “Buddy” Parker (Lexie). He is survived by his son, David Stewart, Jr. of Vancleave; bonus daughter, Emilee Migues (Anthony) of St. Martin; his mother, Carolyn Parker Stewart of Ocean Springs; brother, Michael Stewart of Houston, TX; sister, Stacey Taylor (John); nephew, Wesley Taylor and niece, Jacey Taylor all of Ocean Springs; aunts, Doris Franklin, Dana Salmons, Deborah Parker; Uncle Robert “Ace” Parker; and numerous cousins.

The family would like to thank Traditions Health Hospice, Hospice of Light, and his many friends for their prayers, help, and generosity during the past year.

Mark will be greatly missed by many friends as well as his family. His service will be held at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home in Ocean Springs on Wednesday, July 5th, beginning with a visitation at 12 noon followed by a service at 2:00 pm and interment at Crestlawn Memorial Park.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of David “Mark” Stewart, Sr.