Suzanne Ballard Stewart, age 86, passed away on November 13, 2025.
Suzanne Ballard Stewart, 86, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Suzanne grew up with a bright and curious mind that would carry her through a remarkable life lived through remarkable times. She graduated as valedictorian of Piggott High School in 1957, where she also played varsity basketball.
A devoted homemaker, Suzanne dedicated her life to raising her children and nurturing a warm, welcoming home. She married her high school sweetheart, Charles Stewart, with whom she shared 67 years of partnership and love. Suzanne is survived by her daughter, Tracy McKendry, and her son, Darren Stewart; her grandchildren Emily Benton, Zachary McKendry, Jonathan McKendry, Elizabeth Stone, Hailey Stewart and Ryan Stewart.
She is also survived by ten great-grandchildren who brought her tremendous joy:
• Corey and Aubrey Benton (children of Emily)
• Ayla and Jorel McKendry (children of Zachary)
• Christian, Caleb and Hayden McKendry (children of Jonathan)
• Joshua, Samuel, and Hazel Stone (children of Elizabeth).
Suzanne had many passions throughout her life. She enjoyed playing golf, exploring new places through travel, and was a talented and competitive bridge player. She was “an interesting woman living in interesting times,” having witnessed World War II, the moon landing, the rise of the internet, smartphones, and social media. Through it all, her mind remained sharp and inquisitive — truly “smart as a whip” until the very end.
A funeral service honoring Suzanne’s life will be held on December 19th at First Baptist Church of Mountain Home at 11 am. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate the extraordinary life of a woman whose love, intelligence, and spirit shaped the generations who follow her.
Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas.
Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremaiton.com
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