Harley M Stewart I

Harley Michael Stewart I

“Mickey”

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord” (Psalms 37:23, KJV)

A Time to be Born

On August 11, 1943, God blessed Edward and Carrie Stewart with a handsome baby boy name Harley Michael Stewart I. Harley was raised in a Christian household in which putting God first above all was the emphasis. He was taught to have Christian morals, values and beliefs. Because of these beliefs, Harley gave his life to Christ at an early age. He illustrated those beliefs when he became a member of Christ Memorial Baptist Church, under the pastorate of the late Rev. L.H. Johnson. Harley served in several ministries at Christ Memorial until joining First Church of God under Bishop Timothy J. Clarke in his later years.

A Time to Love

Harley was united in holy matrimony to Iva Jean Franklin on September 21, 1963. He was a loving and devoted husband for 61 years. Harley and Iva welcomed three beautiful children into the world, raising them in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Words can’t describe the love Harley had for his wife, children and family. Harley loved his family and believed in teaching his children and grandchildren about the love of God. He guided them in the way he was taught, living by the word of God. Harley led with discipline, love and being a positive example of what a Christian husband and father should be.

Harley was an artist that could look at anything and put it on canvas exactly the way he saw it. He painted a portrait of his father, Edward T. Stewart that was so identical to him that one would think a photograph was taken and placed on the canvas. Harley also loved a friendly game of cards, barbecuing, going on trips and telling jokes. One of his favorite things to say when asked how he was doing was; “Mighty fine, I thank you”!

A Time to Plant

Harley graduated from Central High School. When Harley was in the third grade, he received a scholarship to attend Columbus College of Art and Design for a summer program. He was so talented with his artwork, he won several art contests while he was in school. Once Iva and Harley were married, he knew he had to support his family. He started working at the Ohio Malleable Iron Company, locally remembered by most as the “Ohio Malibu” until the plant closed. At that time, he began working at Anheuser Busch and was employed there until he retired.

In addition to being a hard worker, Harley was involved in several ministries at Christ Memorial Baptist Church. At one time he drove the church bus, was on the deacon board, trustee board and the finance committee. He was also a member of the Celestial Choir, and the Mass Choir. Harley and the late Deacon Cleveland Parker, under the direction of Joseph M. Thrower, gave a concert at the church. He even participated in a couple of plays with the Thespian Guild.

After spending majority of his adult years at Christ Memorial, Harley joined First Church of God where he served on the Media Ministry until he was no longer able to participate due to his failing health.

A Time to Pass Away

After battling complications from a lengthy illness, on Monday, October 12, 2026, Harley took his last breath, transitioning from his earthly home to his long-awaited heavenly home on high with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Harley was blessed with 83 years of life.

A Time to Mourn

Harley was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Carrie Stewart; wife Iva J. Stewart; brother Keith Stewart; brother-in-law, Wilson Walker; sisters-in-law, Reta (John Sr.) Collins and Cynthia Simpson. 

Harley leaves to treasure his memories his children, Michele (Rev. Dr. Shawn) Anderson, Harley (Monica) Stewart II, and Ivan (Dr. Yolanda) Stewart I; grandchildren, David Stewart, Tiffany Overton, Paul Baldwin Jr., Ashley Stewart, Haley (Kelvin) Clanton, Marissa Stewart, Brittany (Anthony) Dohman, Courtney Stewart, Ivan (Alysea) Stewart II, Sydney Stewart and Isaiah Stewart; great grandchildren, Christian Rogers, Michael Sellers Jr., Luke Miller, Zayden Morris and Sanai Dohman. He is also cherished in memory by his sister, Janice Walker; brothers, Barry (Janice) Stewart and Darrell Stewart; a host of nieces, nephews, other family members and dear friends.