Robert Russell "Bob" Stewart

Robert "Bob" Russell Stewart, born March 31, 1947, in Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, in his hometown at the age of 78. A lifelong Nashvillian, Bob was known for his warmth, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.
Bob married the love of his life, Peggy Edwards, on June 26, 1970. Just one week before his passing, they celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary - a testament to their enduring bond and devotion. Together they built a strong and loving home, raising two sons, Ben Russell and Jason Robert. Bob was a devoted husband and father who led by quiet example. He instilled in his sons the values that mattered most to him - loyalty, devotion, and a strong work ethic - and took great pride in the men they grew to be.
When both Ben and Jason were in high school, Bob was a loyal supporter of the Glencliff High School Marching Band, proudly taking his place among the "Podium Packing Papas" - the group of dedicated dads who helped move equipment to and from the field. Bob personally built the field commander boxes used by the band, and they were so well crafted they remained in use for years after both boys had graduated. He never missed a single game or competition, always showing up with quiet pride and steady support.
He retired from the Metropolitan Board of Education, where he served as head custodian at J.E. Moss Elementary School. Beloved by both staff and students, Bob was honored as Custodian of the Year before his retirement - a reflection of the care and pride he took in his work. The children adored "Mr. Stewart," and their energy brought him joy after many years in the metals industry.
Bob was also known as a true "Mr. Fix It." Whether it was a broken pipe or a tricky renovation, he either knew how to fix it or would find a way. He and Peg completed many home improvement projects over the years, each one a labor of love.
He found great joy in the outdoors - especially camping and fishing. Many vacations were spent at campgrounds with extended family. Bob and Peggy lived next door to her parents, Ben and Corky Edwards, and her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and Louie Rathburn. They shared a double wedding with Mary Ann and Louie and even had sons just four days apart. Their lives were beautifully intertwined.
In later years, Bob enjoyed going to the casino with Peggy - a lighthearted hobby they picked up after retirement. While he never fully disclosed how much he won (or lost), the joy and laughter it brought them made it all worthwhile.
The other great love of Bob's life - aside from Peggy - was his little dog, Sassy. She brought him comfort, joy, and maybe even a bit of healing. Sassy continues to be a loving presence for the family, especially Peggy and Louie, as they mourn both Bob's passing and the recent loss of Mary Ann earlier this year.
Bob will be remembered for his steady heart, quiet humor, and generous spirit. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished.
Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years, Peggy Edwards Stewart; sons, Ben (Amy) Stewart and Jason (Marta) Stewart; and siblings, Dottie, Barbara, Lynn, Dale and Jimmy.
Visitation will be held at Woodbine Funeral Home, Hickory Chapel on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with the service to begin at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Hermitage Memorial Gardens, where Bob will be laid to rest alongside Ben, Corky, and Mary Ann.