Wilma B. Steward

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of our beloved Wilma B. Steward, fondly known to many as "Aunt Bee" born on December 14, 1934, in Louisville, Georgia. Wilma was a beacon of kindness, love, and service until her peaceful passing at a nursing home on August 27, 2026. Wilma was the cherished daughter of Jesse Johnson Sr. and Connie Jefferson, who instilled in her the values of faith, family, and community. She was predeceased by her loving husband, William J. Steward, Sr., with whom she shared over 50 years of marriage. Together they embraced a life filled with laughter, love, and the joy of raising many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Wilma's strength and spirit were also shaped by the memories of her dear ones who preceded her: Commer and Alice Lee Timmons; Fred L. Strong, Sr. and Ann Strong; Jesse Johnson Jr. and Verna Johnson. Throughout her life, Wilma was a devoted matriarch leaving behind a legacy of love in her surviving family members: Ronald and Laura A. Van Dorn; Fred L. Strong, Jr.; William J. Steward, Jr., Richard Steward, Steven Steward, and Katrina Steward; Florence E. Steward; Jefferson and Tawana M. Jean, Joshua W. S. and Jaznia K. Philbert, Taniah M. S. Philbert; Damien K. Strong, Anyae Strong, Da'maj Strong, and Diamante Strong; Amunet McDonald. A host of cousins, relatives, and friends who will continue to celebrate her life and cherish her memory. Wilma's journey of education led her to graduate from The School of Ushers. Her career was marked by her dedication as a daycare worker, a leader of the Brownies and Juniors Girl Scouts for 16 years, a Den Mother, and a Financial Secretary for the Senior Ladies Usher Board No. 2 for 21 years. She also served as Secretary for the Thomas A. Ellis Alumni Tribe No. 1 for 14 years, later assuming the role of Chaplain. Wilma's unwavering faith guided her throughout her life. She became a member of Brown Memorial Baptist Church upon moving to Brooklyn in 1955, and she found her spiritual home at Bridge Street AWME Church in 1972. Her dedication to her faith community was evident in her service as an usher on the Senior Ladies Usher Board #2 where she served as treasurer and advisor to the Young Adult Usher Board in the 90s. Wilma's commitment and service was also shown as she participated in the Georgia Club, the Ethelyne Henderson Missionary Society, the Lay Organization, the Relief Society, and the Georgetonians of New York Inc. Her contributions to the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Day Care Center spanned over two decades. She also attended By God's Grace Ministries with her niece Laura Van Dorn in Beacon, NY where the pastor is Audrey E. Giles. Wilma's culinary skills were legendary. Her kitchen was a haven of warmth and nourishment where every dish was crafted with love and seasoned to perfection. Her passion for cooking made her a revered figure in her church community, and she was often called upon to cater special events. Her welcoming smile and warm greetings made every church member and guest feel at home, embodying her belief in the power of hospitality. Wilma B. Steward had 'God's Marching Orders' and she fulfilled them. Her spirit and legacy of service, love, and faith will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. "Thank God for Jesus and To God be the Glory."