Beatrice M. Stewart, 83, of Lancaster, passed away on October 5, 2017, at her home while surrounded by her loving family. Born in Lancaster, she was one of 22 children born to the late Jeremiah Joseph and Viola (Wallace) Stewart.

Beatrice was a well-known community volunteer, and devoted much of her time and energy to the Southeast Lancaster community advocating for those in need. In earlier years, she was the owner and operator of a corner grocery store. Beatrice could chat with anyone she met and make them feel welcome. She was an excellent cook, and showed her love to everyone through food. She participated in many non-profit organizations, and especially enjoyed cooking for the Crispus Attucks Community Center and Mom's House of Lancaster. She also liked going to yard sales and spending time with her family and friends playing cards. She was a member of Bright Side Baptist Church in Lancaster.

Beatrice was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and will be greatly missed by her son, Bralin Stewart; her grandchildren, David, Cruz, Jr., Nicole Cruz, and Antonio Cruz; and her great-grandchildren, Alishaiya Cruz, Aremari Nogueras and Ahmante Cruz, all of Lancaster. Also surviving is her sister, Geraldine Beasley, of Lancaster, and her Special Son, Michael Cullen of Seattle, WA. In addition to her parents, Beatrice was predeceased by her son, David Cruz, Sr., her sister, Charlotte Stewart, and her brother, Charles Stewart.

Family and friends are invited to greet Beatrice's family from 10 AM-12 Noon, on Friday, October 13, 2017, at Bright Side Baptist Church, 515 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster, PA, 17603, where funeral services will begin at 12:00 Noon. Private interment in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Crispus Attucks Community Center, 407 Howard Avenue, Lancaster, PA, 17602.