News Summary
Chattanooga is in mourning as the community remembers Bruce Blakely Stewart, a beloved educator and advocate for social justice who passed away on January 26, 2025, at the age of 85. Surrounding by family, he leaves behind a legacy marked by dedication to education, diversity, and community engagement. A memorial service is scheduled for February 8, 2025, celebrating his impactful life and contributions.
Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of Bruce Blakely Stewart, Esteemed Educator and Advocate
On January 26, 2025, the charming city of Chattanooga, Tennessee experienced a significant loss with the passing of Bruce Blakely Stewart. He quietly left this world at the age of 85, right at home surrounded by the warmth of his family. For many, Bruce was not just an educator; he was a beacon of hope, a mentor, and a steadfast advocate for social justice and diversity.
Bruce had been enjoying a peaceful retirement in Chattanooga, where he was able to spend precious moments with his loved ones, especially his daughter, son-in-law, and three grandsons. His legacy, however, extends far beyond his immediate family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Andra Jurist, and leaves behind a loving family that includes his children—Kathleen Stewart Hunt (Peter), Lindsay Jurist Rosner (Jason Fox), Marney Cohen (Robert), and Mark Thompson. The joy of his grandchildren—Mac, Will, and Jack Hunt; Annabel Fox; and Matteo Thompson—will surely keep his spirit alive in their hearts.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Advocacy
Bruce’s journey began in Lynn, Massachusetts, where he was raised as the son of a Scottish immigrant who managed to achieve great things despite having only a third-grade education. After graduating from Lynn English High School in 1957, Bruce pursued higher education with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Guilford College in North Carolina. His educational journey didn’t stop there—he obtained a Master of Education in Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was profoundly influenced by Quaker principles.
With a steadfast commitment to education, Bruce dedicated nearly five decades to the field. He began his career as a social studies teacher and counselor at Walter Hines Page High School in Greensboro, North Carolina. During this time, he played an essential role in the school’s initial integration efforts following the landmark sit-ins at Woolworth’s, making sure that all voices were heard and respected.
Foundational Roles and Innovations in Education
As a founding member and the first Dean of Student Affairs at the North Carolina School of the Arts, Bruce was dedicated to nurturing the arts in education. He didn’t stop there; he held various positions at Guilford College, including Director of Admissions and ultimately Provost. His visionary leadership led to the founding of the New Garden Friends School, a preschool through 12th-grade Quaker school.
Moving on to Pennsylvania in 1984, Bruce continued to shape young lives as Head of Abington Friends School. In 1998, he accepted a position as Head of Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., where he remained until his retirement in 2009, firmly placing diversity and increased access to education at the forefront of his mission.
Passion for Sustainability and Community
During his tenure at Sidwell Friends School, Bruce was instrumental in the construction of the LEED Platinum-certified Middle School, showcasing his commitment to sustainability. He was more than just an administrator; he was a mentor, confidant, and friend to countless students, parents, and faculty members. His daily walks were more than just exercise; they also served as opportunities for community engagement where he often picked up trash, demonstrating his care for the environment.
Remembering Bruce
In retirement, Bruce stayed active, attending family events and supporting his grandsons. He was known for encouraging the younger generation to “Let their lives speak.” In an effort to promote healing and understanding, his family has been involved in the development of the Ed Johnson Memorial, aiming to honor the truth of the past while nurturing racial reconciliation.
A memorial service celebrating Bruce’s life is set for February 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Chattanooga Friends Meeting, with a virtual option available via Zoom. There will also be a service at Sidwell Friends School at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bruce’s memory to the educational institutions that were dear to his heart.
Bruce B. Stewart will be remembered not only for his remarkable professional career but also for his integrity, compassion, and lasting impact on the countless lives he touched.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Bruce Blakely Stewart
- Wikipedia: Social Justice
- Legacy: Andra Jurist Obituary
- Google Search: Bruce Blakely Stewart
- Kok Funeral Home: Robert Iverson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sustainability
- WATE: List of Those Owed Money by the State of Tennessee
- Google News: Bruce Blakely Stewart
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