A GREAT SHEPHERD OF GOD’S SHEEP

(April 15, 1936 -- Burdette Stewart -- December 25, 2017)

          Yesterday we bid a final farewell to our beloved brother in Christ, Burdette Stewart.  For much of his life Burdette was a caretaker of sheep.

In his earlier days he watched over numerous four-legged “woolies”.  For most of his adult life his tender loving care was directed towards us two-legged sheep -- the flock of God.  For over forty years Burdette served diligently as a shepherd in the Lord’s church.  His smile was infectious and his many words of encouragement were never-ceasing.  Since 1980, his presence and partnership provided a steady and positive influence on my   ministry.  While we rejoice with him and his family (He now abides in the presence of the Lord), our Cortland Church Family will miss him so much.

          From the time of his baptism into Christ Jesus (c. age 30), Burdette’s life was focused on what he could do to help the Lord’s church.  He was a leader in every way.  He led our singing.  He led beautiful prayers.  He thoughtfully directed our reflections when we gathered ‘round the table of the Lord.  His handshakes were firm and sincere.  With a wide grasp of The Scriptures, he taught Bible classes often and preached occasionally.  He attended each and every funeral and wedding and was with us through good days and bad days.  He always supported our youth in their various  extra-curricular activities and was their most ardent cheerleader.  From the age of 58 to 73, he served as a camp counselor for fifteen consecutive years.  Those who attended our Camp Judson Retreats will never forget his wonderful sunset corn roasts on the shoreline overlooking Lake Erie!

          Burdette was a dear husband to Sharlene; precious father to Pam, Robin and Eric; grandfather to Erin, Paul and Logan; and great-grandfather to Brooks.  To our Cortland Church Family BURDETTE WAS OUR FAITHFUL BROTHER!!  He was so loving and so kind; very generous; ever-present; and always eager to lend a helping with whatever needed to be done.  His smile seemed never diminished.  In his latter years, deep emotions often spilled forth in loving tears.  As we paused to celebrate Burdette’s wonderful and godly life, our assembly was awash with both SMILES and TEARS.

Be with me, Lord!  No other gift or blessing Thou couldst bestow could with this one compare - -

A constant sense of Thy abiding presence, Where’er I am, to feel that Thou art near.

                                                                                                                     Terry Siverd / Cortland Church of Christ