JESSE ASHER STEWART, 90, of Ponca City, Oklahoma, passed away Wednesday morning, October 15, 2014 at the Kansas Veterans Home in Winfield, Kansas

Born July 18, 1924 in Maumee, Arkansas, he was the son of Milas and Gailys (Burright) Stewart. He was raised on a homestead of the old 101 Ranch and received his education in Marland, Oklahoma, graduating from Marland High School in 1942. After school, he joined the United States Army AirCorp and proudly served his country in the European Theatre of World War II. After his honorable discharge, he moved to Ponca City, Oklahoma.

Jesse was united in marriage to Ida Mary Hardy on August 1, 1947 in Blackwell, Oklahoma. The couple made their home in Ponca City, where Jesse worked as a mechanic and heavy equipment operator. In the mid 1960's, he began his career as a truck driver. He drove from coast to coast and had been all over the country. He retired in 2000.

Jesse was a member of the Ponca City American Legion. He enjoyed woodworking and traveling to craft shows with his wife, selling crafts.

His family includes:
His sons: Marshall Stewart and wife, Carol of Tulsa, OK; David Stewart and wife, Betsy of Ponca City, OK; Jeff Stewart and wife, Cheryl of Kildare, OK; Philip Stewart and wife, Sharon of Ponca City, OK;
His daughter-in-law: Kelli Stewart of Ponca City, OK;
His 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; and
His dog molly.

In addition to his parents and wife, Jesse was preceded in death by two sons, Kenneth and infant son John, two brothers, Loren and Paul Stewart and his sister, Ireta Knittle.

Graveside funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at 10:30 A.M. at Resthaven Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Ponca City. Miles Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

A Memorial has been established in Jesse's name for the Ponca City Humane Society. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.