Ryan Stewart

Ryan Vincent Stewart

September 15, 1990 – January 25, 2025 

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ryan Stewart, who left this world far too soon on January 25, 2025, at the age of 34.

Ryan was born on September 15, 1990, and was raised in South Philadelphia. He brought light and joy to many friends and family who affectionately knew him as “Stewy.” He was a father to his beloved daughter, Ava Marie Stewart (4), whose laughter and love for him were the center of his world. 

Ryan is deeply missed and survived by his daughter, Ava Marie Stewart; his mother, Christine Harvey , father Roy Stewart Sr. (Linda), brother Roy Stewart Jr. (Tara); his niece and nephew, Bryce and Harper Stewart; Grandparents, Eileen Harvey and Robert Harvey (Roseanne); Godparents, Kathleen Harvey and Eddie Bryson; also a large, close-knit family of aunts, uncles, and many cousins and friends who cherished him.

Amongst Ryan’s many interests, he was a proud mummer. Starting at age 3 with his dad and brother, he marched with various wench brigades. Like most second streeters, he looked forward to New Year’s Day all year. He also loved to play sports. He played baseball, hockey, and football in various organizations, making countless friends and lasting impressions. 

Ryan loved to create, build, design, draw, color, and paint, and he was always crafting and making everything from his tattoo designs to wooden anchors as a gift to his mom. His creativity led him to contract and construction work, where he could use his talents to help others.

Ryan was a people person - He made friends everywhere he went and made everyone feel important. He loved his family more than anything. To his mom, he would often say, “If you’re smiling, I’m smiling.” Ryan shared a bond like no other with his mother, who was his biggest cheerleader, confident, and unwavering source of love. He’d leave notes around the house or send a quick text, the phrase that grew to be used to celebrate the happy times, and to get through the tough times. 

Ryan’s proudest title was “Dada.” His little girl, Ava Marie, is his whole world, and his love for her is endless. His greatest wish for Ava is for her to always know how proud he was to be her dada and how much he will always love her.

Ryan’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him best, a reminder of the joy, creativity, and love he brought to the world. 

A viewing and celebration of his life will be held in his honor on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM in Nativity BVM Catholic Church at 2535 E Allegheny Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19134. His mass will begin 11 AM and his burial will take place next week at Resurrection Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, your donations to Ryan’s Go Fund me @

https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-ryan-stewart-support-for-funeral

This fund was established to help Ava throughout her life. Your generosity is truly forever appreciated. 

Arrangement by McCafferty Sweeney Slabinski Barnes funerals and cremations, John Barnes Supervisor, 215.620.9123