In Loving Memory

Madeline Stewart

Sunrise December 5, 1936                                                                                                                   Sunset March 25, 2026

Wednesday April 8, 2026 at 10 AM

Rev. Dr. Yvonne Tyler, Eulogist

Schertz Funeral Home & Crematory

2217 FM 3009, Schertz TX 78154

Madeline J. Stewart was born on December 5, 1936, in New York City to the late Cleveland F. Layne and Iris E. Sinckler Layne.

A true native New Yorker, Madeline carried the grit and energy of the city throughout her life. She was strong, direct, and independent, with a presence that filled any room. She was loud in the best way—full of life, laughter, and joy—and made people feel welcomed.

That drive showed early in her youth as an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) All-American track runner. In her early to mid-30s, she continued her active lifestyle through softball and bowling. Bowling became a constant in her life and stayed with her well into her 80s. She never got that perfect game, but she enjoyed every part of it.

Madeline worked for the United States Postal Service, where she showed up and gave her full effort every day. She served multiple times as a union representative, making sure people were treated fairly and that no one was taken advantage of. If something wasn’t right, she spoke up. In 1998, after retiring in 1996 and at the urging of her five children, she relocated to San Antonio, Texas. There, she continued to focus on the things she loved most—family, plants, and simple joys.

Madeline found peace in nature. She believed that what the Lord provided through the earth could help with what ailed you. She practiced holistic self-care long before it became common. She surrounded herself with greenery and bright flowers. If it was green and growing, she loved it.

At her core, Madeline was an encourager. She reminded her children and grandchildren that they could do anything they put their minds to. To her, nothing was off limits. She showed her love in both what she said and what she did—often through thoughtful, unexpected gifts she believed someone would enjoy or need. She always said she had no favorites, but she had a soft spot for those who shared her same fiery personality.

She often said, “Follow your mind—and only the good Lord knows.” Though she did not always speak openly about her faith, it showed in the wisdom she shared and the way she carried herself. Madeline lived a life full of laughter, good food, strength, and a big heart for others. She spoke her mind, stood firm in who she was, and lived life her way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cleveland F. Layne and Iris E. Layne; her sons, Michael Stewart and Terry Stewart; her grandson, Daniel Stewart Jr.; her daughter-in-law, Marcia Stephanie Stewart; her brother, Cleveland F. Layne Jr.; and her sister, Cynthia Layne.

She leaves to cherish her memory two sons, Steven P. Stewart of Peoria, Arizona and Daniel Stewart of Garden Ridge, Texas; one daughter, Andrea Simpson (Christopher) of Dunkirk, Maryland; 21 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Acknowledgements

The family of Madeline Stewart wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the many acts of kindness, prayers, comforting words, and expressions of love shown during this difficult time. Your visits, calls, cards, flowers, and other thoughtful gestures have brought great comfort as we celebrate the life and legacy of our beloved mother, grandmother, and friend. May God bless each of you for your kindness and compassion. — The Stewart Family

“Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.”