Dennis James Stewart Jr.

Dennis James Stewart, Jr., 34, of Springdale, died on July 22, 2021, while on a family vacation. His final days were spent visiting Walt Disney World, going to the beach, and spending quality time with his family. Dennis was a proud 2005 Fayetteville High School graduate and avid sports fan. He described himself as the #1 fan of the Fayetteville Bulldogs, Arkansas Razorbacks, New England Patriots, and San Antonio Spurs. This could easily have been your first experience with Dennis, watching him passionately cheer on his favorite teams from the sidelines. Dennis also participated in Special Olympics where he excelled in softball, basketball, volleyball, and power walking. After receiving several gold medals throughout the years, Dennis would transition into mentoring and coaching athletes. Dennis was also active in his faith. He loved the Lord with all his heart. Dennis was a member of the St. James Baptist Church in Fayetteville from an early age. He could often be found in the front row singing along with the hymns and praising God. His beautiful smile and infectious laughter melted the hearts of many in our community. For Dennis, there was no such thing as a stranger. If you've been to Springdale Sam's Club, then there's a good chance that Dennis checked your receipt and had you smiling before you exited the store. Dennis was also passionate about charity. Dennis served as an Ambassador for United We Dance NWA, which provides safe and free dances to individuals with developmental disabilities and the community. Dennis could often be found at UWD events either on the dance floor or helping new visitors get acclimated. Dennis was a longtime recipient of services from Arkansas Support Network. It was through this community-inclusive organization that Dennis would learn how to advocate for himself. Dennis would not allow others to place boundaries on what he could achieve, he was limitless. He leaves behind many wonderful friends and caregivers that have provided love and support to enhance his quality of life throughout the years. There is a special place in our hearts for Dennis's friend and caregiver, Weynshet (Wendy) Ward. He is survived by his parents, Joseph and Hailey Rocko, brother, Garrett, nephew, Oliver, and niece, Sadie, of the home. Dennis was loved by many families throughout his life, including Ken Jones and Family, the Woods Family, the Means Family, the Brewer Family, and biological parents, Dennis Stewart, Sr. and Paula Walton-Battles. He is survived by several siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and a niece. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Westfield Chapel Funeral Home in Springdale. Visitation will be Friday, July 30, from 4-7 p.m. The funeral will be held on Saturday, July 31, at 11 a.m., with a graveside service to follow at Elm Springs Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to United We Dance NWA: unitedwedancenwa.org. Online condolences: www.WestfieldChapel.com