James D. "Jimmy" Stewart

James D. “Jimmy” Stewart passed away peacefully in his home on June 25, 2025 at the age of 86. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 66 years, Norma C. Stewart.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama on March 17, 1939, he graduated from Shades Valley High School and attended the University of Alabama. Beginning as a draftsman, he spent his 38-year career as an aerospace engineer, at Hayes International (Pemco) and later with Cotney Aerospace. He was renowned for his exceptional work ethic and remarkable ability to repair or build nearly anything. Beyond his professional life, he pursued his hobbies with enthusiasm. One example was meticulously hand-building the family sailboat, which he enjoyed sailing on Lake Martin. His lifelong passion for all things aircraft and flight encompassed all types of planes and spacecraft, but he particularly excelled as a sailplane pilot, even holding the altitude record for the State of Alabama for a period. A talented drummer, he was a proud member of the Shades Valley High School Marching Band and the Million Dollar Band at the University of Alabama and continued to share his talent in dance bands for many years.

He leaves behind three daughters: Charlotte Burkett (Ray), Monica Farris (Barry) and Deborah Stewart; four grandchildren: Miranda Martin, Katie Leipert, Stewart Martin (Morgan) and Adam Burkett; four great-grandchildren: Gage Duncan, Eli Duncan, Stella Martin and Sadie Martin; and three brothers: Jerry Stewart (Janis), Michael Stewart (Marie) and Larry Stewart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James W. and Marion B. Stewart.

A private funeral will be held June 30, 2025 at Jefferson Memorial Gardens, Trussville, Alabama.