Woodford Ray Stewart

Woodford Ray Stewart, age 80, of Owenton, passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2023. Born June 28, 1942, in Owenton, KY he was the son of Dallas "Jack" Stewart and Opal Webster Slaughter.

Woody retired from Owen Electric in 2001 and continued as a licensed electrician for over 20 years wiring many remodels and new constructions. He coordinated the build of homes for both his children in Owen County as well as other new homes and barns for his closest friends.

This same knack for construction was realized on the family farm where he, and his wife Verna, expanded the property to accommodate a commercial hog operation. In addition, Woody grew field corn, tobacco, and hay all while working full-time.

Woody was a devoted husband that always supported Verna in her vast array of volunteerism. This could range from building cross-country horse jumps for a 4-H fundraiser to working the arena for the local Pioneer Saddle Club where he and his family enjoyed horse shows in Owen County. Because Woody was so driven to work hard it took bringing back his love of horses to provide some recreation in his life. He most enjoyed the day-long trail rides the family, and other local riders, took each summer both in Owen County and at state parks.

As he supported his children in showing horses throughout KY and surrounding states, Woody also enjoyed breeding and raising horses. His most noteworthy foal was “Clover Bars Image” who achieved multiple World Championships with his owner and was placed on the American Quarter Horse Association Hall of Fame.

Working with leather as a hobby turned into a small business where he crafted western leather chaps, belts, gun holsters, cell phone cases, and more. He crafted chaps for equine exhibitors from out of state and even Italy. There was really not anything he could not make with his hands.

Each summer, Woody took great pride in having a bumper garden and then shared it with anyone who was willing to come to pick the produce. It seemed that the garden just kept getting bigger each year which gave Verna and the family plenty of produce to can for winter eating.

The resounding theme of Woodford’s life and the example set for others is the importance of hard work. Not many a man could keep stride with him, at any age, and his drive and determination have mentored many. Most of all Woody Stewart was loved by his family and the many individuals he treated like family far and wide.

Woody was preceded in death by his wife, Verna Hellen Minch Stewart of nearly 56 years and will be deeply missed by his children Ashley (Tod) Griffin, and Gene Ray (Cara) Stewart; his brother Marvin (Carolyn) Stewart; his four grandchildren Price and Reese Ann Griffin, Clayton and Bailey Stewart; his brother in law Gary (Janice) Minch; his niece and nephews, Trina Stewart, Brian Minch, and Kevin Minch; and Uncle Bill Stewart.

New Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements. Family will receive friends for visitation at the Main Street location on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, from 4 - 8 pm.  Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023, at 11 am with Bro. Robert Franz officiating. Woody will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife in the Owenton Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Owenton First Christian Church or Hosparus Palliative Care in Louisville. Livestream available here .