Arvis L. Stewart

Arvis L. Stewart passed away on July 23rd, 2016. The oldest of three sons, he was born in Turkey, Texas on October 29, 1939, to Arthur Lee Stewart and Louise Thompson Stewart (affectionately known as 'Tiny'). When he was 8 years old his family moved to Amarillo where he grew up. He graduated from Texas Technological College in Lubbock, Texas with a Bachelor's degree in Advertising Art and Design with a focus on Fine Arts in 1965. That same year he married fellow art student Angela D. Adams and they moved to New York City to seek a career in illustration. After a lean introduction to the big city they both were brought on by the design agency of Helen Wohlberg, Inc., for whom they illustrated children's books for many years. In 1968 they moved upstate to start a family and had two children; Holly and Adam in 1971 and 1974, respectively. After separating in 1980, Arvis moved back to Amarillo where he happened to buy a house next door to Mary Lemons Harrell, who became the love of his life and to whom he remained married the rest of his days. While he continued to illustrate children's books, he began developing an interest in stained glass. By the early nineties, what had begun as a mere hobby became the bulk of his work as he designed, built and installed windows and chandeliers in churches, businesses and homes throughout the panhandle. Arvis's faith was very important to him. He was a long-time deacon at First Baptist Church in Amarillo as well as an active member of the Gideon ministry. He loved spending time outdoors as nature provided valued inspiration for his work and soul. He loved taking road trips as he would frequently say things like "off we go on our next adventure" on the way out of town. Professionally, he was a past member of the Society of Illustrators as well as a member of the American Stained Glass Association and the Association of Stained Glass Lamp Artists. He leaves behind his wife, Mary L. Stewart, two children, Holly Stewart Maxey of Amarillo and Adam Stewart of Dallas, as well as four step-children; Byron Harrell and wife Shirin, Jim Harrell (deceased) and widow Susan, Bonnie Bennett and partner David Wright, and Mickie Phipps and husband Jerry. Arvis has two grandsons, Nicholas and Jack Maxey, both of Amarillo. He also leaves behind two brothers, Bob Stewart and wife Peggy of Amarillo, and James Stewart and wife Wanda from San Antonio, as well as countless friends who, no doubt, join us in wishing Dad safe passage on his new adventure.

Service Schedule

Memorial Service First Baptist Church 1208 S. Tyler Amarillo, TX 79101 Thursday, July 28, 2016 2:00 P.M.