William “Bill” Thomas Stewart, 84, of Kansas City passed away March 11, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born September 29, 1939, to Van and Lucille (Allen) Stewart in Excelsior Springs, Missouri.
Bill devoted his life to his family and his passion for firefighting. He began his career in public service as a police officer in Claycomo, MO, and then spent nearly 47 years dedicated to the Excelsior Springs Fire Department, serving as a firefighter, and retiring as Fire Chief. Bill served in other capacities as well, including the administrative boards of multiple area and regional fire chief associations including the Missouri Association of Fire Chiefs and he worked as a Fire Services Intelligence Specialist for the Kansas City Regional Terrorism Early Warning Group, affiliated with the Department of Homeland Security. His commitment and enthusiasm for serving others had a lasting impact on his community and its citizens.
The only thing Bill loved more than firefighting was his family and the firefighters he served alongside. He never turned down an opportunity to spend time with his kids and grandkids, and even in his final days he received heartfelt visits from his firefighter family.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Wanda Isom; brother, Jimmy Maidment; and grandson, Jon Davis.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 46 years, Linda, and children, Janet Stewart, Scott (Kathy) Stewart, Shannon (John) Faulkner, and Chris (Arlene) Stewart. Other survivors include brother, Gary Stewart; nine grandchildren, Kyle, Laura, Brett, Jackson, Seth, Chase, Addyson, Sophia, and Bennett; three great-grandchildren, Justin, Rowan, and Wesley; and many nieces and nephews. Bill was also blessed with extended family and friends who loved him dearly.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM followed by funeral services at 11:30 AM on Friday, March 15, 2024 at United Methodist Church in Excelsior Springs, MO. Graveside services will immediately follow at Masonic Cemetery in Excelsior Springs.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Excelsior Springs Fire Department, c/o Chief Bill Stewart Education Fund.
Our Sincere Condolences
My deepest sympathy to the family of Bill. I worked with the Chief on several levels in our region. Bill was always a friend and mentor to me for all the time I knew him.
I will always remember our conversations and working together.
God rest you Chief. You have earned it.
Mike Jenkins
I am so sorry for your loss.
John Hill
Chief Stewart was a dear friend. A kind man that had a caring heart. Rest in peace Chief.
Jesse Hall
I met William when he was chief of the ESFD, he was the one who interviewed for my fire academy class. I also got to meet him during my time doing my clinicals with the department. He was a very happy person who cared about those around him and served many years for the ESFD. I send my prayers to the members of the ESFD, and prayers to his family and friends. He was a really good person, and he’s in a better place now. Rest easy chief.
Steven Allen Ruby
