Raymond Lee Steward

Ray Steward, 56, of Bel Air, MD passed away on Thursday, September 29th, 2011. Born in Calexico, CA, at a young age Ray moved to Maryland. He attended Bel Air High School and after graduation he returned to San Diego, CA. In December of 2010 Ray relocated to Bel Air from Santee, CA because of health reasons. Despite his strong desire to recover, he gave up that struggle and moved on to be with the ones that have touched his life in some way or another but are no longer with us.

Having a passion for music, he started playing the guitar at a young age which continued into his adult life. He looked forward to going out and listening to local bands or going to concerts with his sister Robin. But what he enjoyed most was "jamming" with his friends, something he did throughout his life. His other interest included horticulture for which he pursued a degree in botany at San Diego State College.

Ray was a generous person who always had a smile on his face and found something to appreciate in everyone. His family was important to him and they shared his final days.

He was the son of Carol L. Lederer and the late Melvin E. Lederer of Bel Air, MD, and son of the late Raymond E. Steward and is survived by mother Bobbie Steward of Santee, CA. He is also survived by sister Robin Pole and brother-in-law Tommy of Finksburg, MD, brother Duane Lederer and sister-in-law Debbie of Baltimore, MD, sister Terry Martin and brother-in-law Kenny of Delta, PA, sister Joyce Lowe and brother-in-law Jerry of Churchville, MD, sister Kim Peppers and brother-in-law Rick of Hamul, CA, brother Curtis Steward of Santee, CA. Ex-wife JoAnn Steward, with whom he remained close friends with, resides in NY. He has a son, Raymond H. Steward and had hoped they would be as close as they once were.

Ray was pre-deceased by grand-parents Howard and Elizabeth Heuisler of Overlea, MD, Paul and Crystal Steward of El Centro, CA and Helen Steward of San Diego, CA. He had several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, a great niece and a great nephew in CA, MD or PA.

In addition to his family he was fortunate to have met two very kind hearts, Dave and Jean Walker. Our family was touched by their generosity and support.

…and with Ray up to the end was his new friend "Trixie".

Anyone who wishes to do so may make a memorial contribution to:
Maryland Conservatory of Music, 701 Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21014, in memory of Raymond L. Steward.