G. Russell Stewart II

1933 - 2021

North Stonington - Russell Stewart, 88, beloved husband to June Stewart, passed away peacefully Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, at his home in North Stonington surrounded by loved ones. Russ was born in New London, Oct. 20, 1933, to A. Morgan II and Sadie Stewart. He lived in Stonington and North Stonington for most of his life.

Russ attended the University of Connecticut where he earned a bachelor's degree. He then earned master's degrees from both Trinity College and Eastern Connecticut State University. Before retiring from teaching, he earned a law degree from the University of Connecticut Law School. He received a Fulbright Scholarship to study in India, and numerous fellowships to universities and colleges around the country. He worked as a social studies teacher for the town of Groton for some 20 years, where he is often fondly remembered for playing piano for his students. Russ also served as President of the New London Central Labor Council in 1967 while representing the Groton Teacher's Union.

Russ was an avid traveler, often with various members of his family, always with his wife. He visited over 60 countries and every state in the union consistently making new friends wherever he went. While there, he would pursue other interests such as rock and mineral hounding or genealogy. Russ traced his line back to multiple Mayflower passengers and to Charlemagne.

Russ played the piano and performed many weekends in local bands. At home he enjoyed listening to all kinds of music and even more so, sharing his huge musical selection with anyone wanting to listen to them. He was an avid fan of the UConn Huskies, particularly the women's basketball team whom he watched in person attending their home games and following them to several Final Fours.

Russell Stewart was an amazing man who touched the lives of countless people. He will be dearly missed by his wife of 65 years, June; his sons, Lincoln, Morgan, and Russell; his daughter Bonnie; and all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as his half sister, Margaret VanPatten; and half brother, A. Gary Stewart.

There will be no calling hours. Russ will be honored in a celebration of life that will be held at a later date determined by the family. In lieu of flower arrangements, donations may be made in his memory to "Companion and Choice Gift Processing Center. P.O. Box 485 Etna, NH 03750.