Verdie Mae Stewart

Verdie Mae Stewart was born on December 17, 1936, outside of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, to Genie Lois Barnett and Bates Barnett. When she was five years old, her family moved to Portland, Oregon. She graduated from Vancouver High School in 1955, and married Clement Stewart later that year. Her only child, Victor Lamont Stewart was born in 1956. When the marriage ended, she worked to support herself and her young son. She worked as a cocktail waitress at the Benson Hotel’s London Grill, where she met many famous
people, including Robert F. Kennedy, who knew her by name. She also worked at I. Magnin. Verdie Stewart was famous for her beauty and sense of style. She was the first in her circle to own a Mustang, having bought one the year they came out–1964 ½. That was the first of three she zipped around town in. “There go Verdie in that Mustang!” 

Verdie spoiled Victor–he was the only kid in the neighborhood who had a minibike, ping pong table, and pool table. Things were not easy, but she loved him and gave him the best life that she possibly could. Verdie had a big heart and would often help others, offering rides or food for those in need. She loved the Lord, and she loved her family. She was a caregiver for her own mother in her last days, as her son was a caregiver for her.

She is preceded in death by both parents and by her sisters, Genie Lois Barnett, Lilly Gibson. She will be dearly missed by her son Victor and daughter-in-law Lisa, her siblings Thelma Harris, Mary Butler, Matthew Barnett (Nathalee), and Bates Barnett, and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Verdie, you will always live in our hearts.

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