Eldon Rushing Stewart, 95, passed away peacefully on September 10th , 2025, in Orange, Texas. Born on September 19, 1929, in Hemphill, Texas, to Henry Hardy Stewart and Florence Beatrice Stewart, Eldon lived a remarkable life marked by determination, innovation, and unwavering devotion to family.
Eldon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 73 years, Betty Jean Stewart, who passed away on January 9, 2024. Together, they exchanged vows on December 11, 1950, in Beaumont, Texas, beginning a beautiful partnership that would define both their lives. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Henry Hardy Stewart and Florence Beatrice Stewart, and his brother, James Thomas “JT” Stewart.
A loving father and devoted grandfather, Eldon is survived by his children: Deborah Gipson of Orange, Texas, and Doug Stewart and wife, Kelli, of Houston, Texas. He leaves behind five grandchildren: Deon Gipson and wife, Kera, of Orange; Jason Gipson and wife, Melinda, of Orange; Andrew Stewart and wife, Nicole, of Dripping Springs; Spencer Stewart and wife, Egalhy, of Woodway; and Allison Stewart of Houston. Eldon was also a proud great-grandfather to Ryan, Logan, Jace, and Lane Gipson.
Born and raised on a farm during the Great Depression, Eldon developed a lifelong love for the outdoors and an unshakeable work ethic. After serving his country with honor in the Army during the Korean War era, he settled his family in Orange, Texas, where he focused on raising his children and advancing his career. His professional journey eventually led him to Houston, where he achieved executive-level success in the chemical and petroleum industries.
A dedicated Freemason for 65 years, Eldon embodied the principles of integrity, brotherhood, and service throughout his life. He was truly a jack-of-all-trades who never shied away from a challenge, whether it involved woodworking, automotive repair, hunting, fishing, or solving complex industrial problems. His innovative spirit and problem-solving abilities made him a pioneer in his field and a mentor to countless colleagues.
Upon retirement, Eldon and Betty Jean returned to Beaumont, where they embarked on their greatest adventure together. They purchased an RV and spent many happy years traveling throughout Texas and across the entire country, creating cherished memories and discovering the diverse beauty of America’s landscapes. These golden years of exploration exemplified their shared love for adventure and their joy in experiencing life together.
In his later years, Eldon became passionate about documenting his legacy for future generations, determined to ensure his remarkable story could be told and preserved. This late-in-life mission culminated in the memoir “A Texas Original,” which chronicles his journey from a Depression-era farm boy to a successful industrial executive. He was surprised with an early birthday celebration for his upcoming 96th birthday and was presented with his book. Eldon was delighted to see his vision come to fruition. He was amazed to find that his book was published on Amazon and sits in his hometowns public library in Hemphill Texas ensuring that his remarkable legacy and the wisdom he gained through nearly a century of American life will continue to inspire readers everywhere.
Eldon will be remembered for his strong work ethic, devotion to family, innovative spirit, and zest for new experiences. His legacy of love, resilience, and determination will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a true Texas original who proved that extraordinary lives can emerge from the most humble beginnings.
The pallbearers for Eldon’s final journey will include his grandchildren Jason Gipson, Andrew Stewart, and Spencer Stewart, along with his great-grandchildren Jace Gipson, Lane Gipson, and Logan Gipson. Allison Stewart will serve as an honorary pallbearer. Their presence symbolizes the generations of love and respect that Eldon has left behind.
A celebration of Eldon’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, with a visitation to begin at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wounded Warrior Project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/.
Eldon Stewart’s legacy of love, innovation, and devotion will continue to guide and inspire his family and all who were privileged to know him.
“The sun rises. Life continues, brilliant and brief and beautiful beyond words. And Eldon, keeper of Betty and Eldon’s shared story, guardian of their combined wisdom, leaves behind the knowledge that some loves are so powerful they become eternal, transforming not just two hearts, but everyone they touch along the way.”
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