Ian Kevin Stewart

Ian Kevin Stewart, known affectionately as Ian, or “E” to all who were lucky enough to cross paths with him, embarked on his final adventure on November 30, 2025. Born on November 11, 1991, in "charming” Baltimore, Maryland, Ian's life was a journey filled with laughter and an uncanny ability to whip up a brisket that could make a grown man weep.

Ian leaned into his role known as the neighborhood's unofficial comedian. His quick wit and generous spirit were as much a part of him as his love for the great outdoors. He found peace while hiking through the woods or on the Appalachian Trail, kayaking down a river, or schooling someone on the finer points of a perfect Kan Jam frisbee throw. High school was a blur of sports, friendships, and achievements, with Ian graduating from Aberdeen High School in 2010, leaving a legacy of year-round athletic feats and more than a few legendary pranks.

His academic journey didn't end at the high school gymnasium. Ian took his talents to Kings College, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in criminal justice. He was a proud member of the Sigma Kappa Sigma fraternity and Alpha Phi Epsilon, the national criminal justice honor society. Professionally, Ian served as a corrections officer in Baltimore City for 10 years where he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and those under his watch. He also spent 20 years working at the Olive Tree Restaurant, where he served in different capacities and made some of his fondest memories with his coworkers. Most loved was his role as bar tender because he could serve you a well-mixed drink, recommend his favorite menu items, and share his incredible sense of humor.

When he wasn't working or studying, Ian was a self-proclaimed foodie and a culinary maestro in his own right. His smoked brisket and mac and cheese were the stuff of legend, and he reveled in sharing his creations with friends and family.

Ian's home in Joppa, Maryland, was a gathering place for many, but truly a kingdom of his own. Numerous Yeti coolers, tumblers, and other accessories adorned the space both tactfully and tastefully. It was there that friends and family would gather on Sundays to watch the Ravens play, where epic cookouts were hosted, and the ultimate pitmaster was in his element. It was also there that he passed away, unexpectedly, leaving behind a world less bright without his presence. He is survived by his mother, Tamara Smith; his father, Thomas Calvin Stewart, Jr.; his brother, Colin James Stewart; and his nephew, Chance Thomas, who will we hope inherit his uncle's legendary sense of humor.

Ian's life was a testament to the power of laughter, intelligence, and generosity. He was the kind of guy who could light up a room with a single quip, challenge your intellect with a well-placed fact, and then make sure you never left his table hungry. His absence will be felt deeply by all who knew him, but the echoes of his laughter will continue to inspire us to find joy in the everyday and to live life with a generous heart.

So, here's to Ian Kevin Stewart, a man who lived his life like a perfectly timed punchline—unexpected, unforgettable, and leaving us all wanting just a little bit more. May he remain a guiding light to those that loved him, his stories continue to be told, his brisket forever be smoked to perfection, and his memory cherished as the treasure it truly is. Rest in peace, dear Ian, and thank you for the laughter. A gathering of friends and family to celebrate Ian's life will be held at the Olive Tree Restaurant, 1005 Beards Hill Road, Aberdeen, MD 21001 on December 9th, 2025, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM.

Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org).