Obituary of Sharon Ann Stewart

SHARON (SHERRY)

 ANN STEWART

(née SISSONS)

May 26, 1943 - October 24, 2022

Sherry, 79, of Toronto, passed away unexpectedly, but quietly, on the morning of October 24, 2022. Sherry was predeceased by her husband, John MacArthur Stewart, and her sister, Katherine Sissons, and is survived by her daughter, Lisa Ann Stewart of Washington, D.C., her son, John Alexander Stewart (Kimberly), and grandsons, James and William of Halifax, N.S. She is also survived by her sisters, Carol Sissons and Judith Murillo.

Sherry was born on May 26, 1943, and at an early age was stricken with polio. Despite her amazing recovery, her life would be forever challenged with the complications of post-polio syndrome. Her persistent battle with her health was further tested as she became the primary caregiver to her husband, John.

Sherry found great joy in her role as mother and Nan. She travelled with Lisa, challenged Alex to Scrabble, and was always there for a phone call or text. Upon graduation from story time, she loved engaging in debate with James and cheering William on in his games from the virtual sidelines. Sherry also cherished afternoon tea dates and attending the Santa Claus parade with her grandnieces.

Sherry’s passion in life was early childhood education. She firmly believed in the philosophy that Quisque infans singularis est - “each child is unique.” After working at several schools in Toronto, her dream became a reality when she founded her own private school based on this mantra. The Rosedale Day School (RDS) was established in September of 1995 with a staff of four and 23 students spanning JK to Grade 2. Since its founding, RDS has grown into a thriving educational community with more than 170 students and 30 dedicated, creative teachers and staff. Sherry retired from RDS in 2010, but her legacy of excellence in teaching in the elementary grade levels remains.

In her retirement, education remained in her heart. She continued to be an active member of the RDS community by providing strategic guidance and attending school events. She was always very proud to see young smiling faces walking along Bloor Street in their RDS uniforms. Over the past few years, Sherry embraced technology and conducted a weekly virtual reading class with kindergarten students at The Dalton School.

The family is grateful for the remarkable attention of her team of dedicated medical professionals and from her caregivers.

A celebration of her life will be held at The York Club on Friday, November 11th between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m.

Donations can be made to The Rosedale Day School in support of the Sharon Stewart Bursary Fund.  Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

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