Sara Margaret (Mccain) Stewart

Sara Margaret McCain Stewart, passed away on March 23, 2025, at the age of 86 at Scottish Pines.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church, officiated by Pastor Neill McKay.  Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

Born on July 30, 1938, in Chester County, SC, she was a daughter of the late David L. McCain and Louise Porter McCain. Sara lived a life marked by dedication to her family, her faith, and her community. Sara's early years were spent in the nurturing embrace of Chester County, setting the stage for her lifelong commitment to education and service. After a distinguished academic journey, she graduated from Winthrop College, where she honed the skills that would define her professional and personal life. Sara's career as a Speech Therapist with Scotland County Schools showcased her passion for helping others, a trait that endeared her to many. Her marriage to John Dougald Stewart was a testament to enduring love and partnership, spanning 65 remarkable years. Together, they raised a loving family that includes two sons, John D. Stewart, Jr. and Alan Stewart, both of Laurinburg, and her brother, David McCain of Richburg, SC.

Sara's fervor for knowledge and history was evident in her active involvement with the Scotland County Genealogy Society. Her dedication to preserving the past was immortalized through her published pictorial history book of Scotland County and her editorial contributions to the Scotland County History Book. Her talents as an author extended to the personal domain as well, with the publication of two family history books. Her professional journey was diverse and impactful. Prior to her esteemed role as a Speech Therapist, Sara served as a Dietician at a hospital in Danville, VA. She also imparted wisdom as a science teacher at Laurinburg Junior High School, taught at Maxton High School, and shaped young minds at Johnson Middle School. Each role was carried out with the same level of excellence and passion that was the hallmark of her character. Sara's commitment to her faith was unwavering. As a long-standing member of Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church, she served in various capacities, including Elder, Deacon, Clerk of the Session, and President of Women of the church. Her love for her church community shone brightly as she led Sunday School classes and famously coordinated the chicken salad for the church's annual ingathering’s. Her civic engagement was equally notable, with Sara being a proud member of the Democratic Women. Her interests were as varied as they were rich; she was an accomplished cook, an artist in painting, and a skilled seamstress. These hobbies reflected the creativity and care that she brought to all aspects of her life. Sara will be remembered as a faith-filled, passionate, and thoughtful individual. Her legacy is one of unwavering commitment to her family, her faith, and her community. Through her actions and deeds, she taught those around her the importance of service, the value of history, and the power of education.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Bumgarner Family Funeral Service and Crematorium. Memorials may be made to Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church, 15301 McFarland Road, Laurinburg, NC 28352 or Union ARP Church, 3594 Lancaster Highway, Richburg, SC 29729.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Service is assisting the Stewart family.

Online condolences can be made at www.bumgarnerfunerals.com.

Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church
15301 McFarland Road, Laurinburg NC 28352

Union ARP Church
3594 Lancaster Highway, Richburg SC 29729