Joseph Stewart Jr., affectionately known as "Lay" was born to the late Joseph (Dea) and Elizabeth (Birdie) Stewart of Riceboro, Georgia on May 10, 1945. He was the oldest of eleven children. Three siblings preceded him in death, Georgia Mae Butler, Mary Lee Baker and Matilda Stewart.

Joseph attended the Liberty County school system. He then relocated to Buffalo, New York in 1965. He was united in Holy matrimony to Lottie Howard on June 17, 1967. Joseph was baptized at an early age. While in Buffalo, he became a member of Miracle Tabernacle Church. He was a devoted member that enjoyed singing in the choir. He was also a member of The Voices, a gospel singing group. Joseph had the privilege of singing on the radio a few times. He enjoyed being a back up drummer and a member of the Board of Trustees. He retired from Morrison Industrial Company in Buffalo, New York. After retirement they moved back to Riceboro. Joseph was a dedicated member of First African Baptist Church of Riceboro, Georgia. Joseph was a member of the choir and the male chorus. Joseph remained steadfast in his walk with God.

Joseph enjoyed watching his favorite teams Buffalo Bills and the Atlanta Braves in his spare time. He played on the adult softball teams in Buffalo and in Riceboro. He also enjoyed planting a garden every year.

Joseph is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 55 years, Lottie Stewart; one son, Andre (Delores); one grandson, Kalen, all of Las Vegas, Nevada; four sisters: Essie(John) Jones of Ludowici, Ga; Lillie Mae Stewart, Leola Stewart and Shirley Stewart all of Riceboro, Ga; Three Brothers: Jimmie (Gwen) Stewart, John Stewart all of Riceboro, Ga; Clarence (Stella) Stewart of Glenville, Ga; a brother in law, John Baker of Ludowici, Ga; one sister in law; Mae Bell Wilkins; One aunt, Marie Stewart of Waycross, Ga,; Special cousins; Mary Stevens, Jane West, Al ( Earnestine) Cummings, and Shirley; a host of sorrowing nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.&