Stuart Cowles McCall

Stuart Cowles McCall, age 75, of Holden Beach, N.C. and Rock Hill, S.C., died peacefully on June 19, 2025, at Duke University Hospital from complications with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Stuart was born on October 15, 1949, in Raleigh, NC, son of the late Jesse A. McCall and Eleanor Self McCall. He grew up in Stone Mountain, Georgia in an idyllic setting for a young adventurer. His formative years were enriched with discipline and camaraderie, setting the foundation for his future endeavors. He graduated from Oak Ridge Military Academy in Oak Ridge, NC. He moved to Charlotte, NC in 1968. His first job was working at General Tire in Charlotte, where he eventually retired after 30 years. His entrepreneurial spirit then led him to launch a successful custom pool construction company, Backyard Retreats Pools and Spas. His work ethic, coupled with a keen understanding of his craft, earned him respect and admiration in his field. He proudly and unselfishly mentored others in the field who went on to become successful in their own right.

Stuart's interests were as varied as they were passionate. He carried a lifelong love for the outdoors. He was an avid reader, finding solace and inspiration within the pages of books and articles that he enjoyed. He enjoyed listening to all genres of music. He was an enthusiastic NC State fan. He spent countless hours on ballfields both coaching and watching his children play sports. Stuart's love for travel and adventure saw him embark on many adventures, including his memorable participation in the Camino de Santiago "Walk across Spain" in 2019.

Perhaps his greatest joy was spending time at the family beach house. His perfect day was spent simply looking at the water topped off by an evening around the fire pit engaging in hearty conversations with family and friends.

Stuart is survived by his wife of 35 years, Kim McCall, who was his partner in both life's joys and challenges. He is also survived by his sons, Robert McCall, Christian McCall, and Aaron McCall, and bonus sons, Zachary Kessell (Alicia) and Cole Kessell (Kari). In addition, he is survived by his siblings Jess McCall (Gayle), Sara Hathaway (David), and Robert McCall (Teresa). Stuart had eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of storytelling, warmth, wisdom, and wonder will endure in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

A service to celebrate Stuart's life will be Sunday, June 29 at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2955 W. Hwy 160, Fort Mill, SC 29708. Visitation will begin at 1:30. The service will begin at 2:30.

Stuart would have appreciated memorials in his name to organizations that support children, animals, and the marginalized. Suggestions are Community Cafe, 5415 Hwy 557, Lake Wylie, SC 29710, Ronald McDonald House, 1613 E. Morehead St, Charlotte, NC 28207, and BilliesBuddies.org (animal rescue).