Arthel (A. J.) Stewart was born on March 12, 1985 in St. Louis, Mo to the union of Arthel and Elaine (Lowery) Stewart. Arthel confessed his love for the Lord at an early age and was baptized young.

A. J. was adventurous and enjoyed several outdoor activities, cars, video games, collecting guns and going on road trips. A. J. graduated SWIC's G.E.D. program in 2006. A. J. married Lashonda Houston-Stewart on November 1, 2008. They later adopted 3 dogs, whom Arthel loved dearly. Arthel worked as a security guard and as a truck driver.

Arthel was preceded in death by his grandparents, Willie and Minnie Lowery and Leona Lofton and his uncle, Bunic "Al" Price.

On Friday, March 24, 2017, A. J. unexpectedly yet peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, LaShonda (Houston) Stewart; parents, Arthel and Elaine (Lowery) Stewart; sister, Cynthia Stewart; brother, Antonio Sanders, mother and brother-in-law, Gwen and Jeff Houston; and a host of other beloved family and friends, including 6 god children.