Matthew 11:28 (NIV) records Jesus offering an invitation with a promise too generous to refuse: "Come unto me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

On Thursday, September 18, 2025, He who is forever faithful to His Word kept that promise to our beloved Geraldine Felder Stewart, affectionately known as "Gerry." At 6:15 P.M., He graciously offered His hand, inviting her to her heavenly home to rest from every earthly burden. With unwavering faith and trust in her lifelong Friend Jesus, she took His hand and entered His eternal rest after a gentle, fond "Farewell" to loved ones nearby.

Gerry was born on October 14, 1953, to the union of Richard Felder, Sr. and Daisy Boisseau Felder. Educated in Petersburg Public Schools, she graduated with the Petersburg High School Class of 1973. She worked faithfully with the Kmart Corporation for 42 years in various roles until her retirement in 2016.

Her Christian journey began at Mount Olivet Baptist Church, where she surrendered her life to Christ at an early age. In later years, she worshipped at New Beginnings Church and NFTWCC. Over the years, Gerry developed a deep, abiding faith with unshakeable trust in Jesus Christ. Her walk with Him included countless praise and prayer times with her sisters and other prayer warriors.

Enjoying time with her close and extended family was a priority for Gerry. That included watching Ravens' games with her husband Frank, antique shopping, and hosting tea parties with friends and cousins. She was an avid collector of many beautiful teapots, teacups, and all things tea related. As a member of the Social Tea Ladies Club, Gerry delighted in gathering with them at various tea rooms on the first Friday of every month. Gifted with amazing creative talents, she designed many unique gift wrappings, home and holiday décor, and lovely teatime tablescapes. Gerry's grace and impeccable style left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be in her presence.

Although Gerry was not a biological mother, she was a most loving mother and grandmother figure to her nieces and nephews. They all adored her, and several were totally devoted to her. She was also blessed to gain bonus children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren through her union with her husband, Frank.

Gerry was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Felder, Sr. and Daisy Boisseau Felder; her brother, Richard Felder, Jr.; her sister, Daisy F. Smith; and her nephews, Cory and Almon Smith.

Gerry leaves to cherish her memory her loving and devoted husband, Frank Stewart of North Chesterfield, VA; one sister, Patricia F. Mallory of Clarksville, TN; her devoted niece/daughter-at-heart, Jammie Smith of Dinwiddie, VA; nephews, Samuel Mallory, Sr. of Clarksville, TN, Stith A. Shands, and Frederick Smith, Jr. both of Petersburg, VA; bonus children, Tony Patterson of Petersburg, VA, and Cynthia Stewart of Hopewell, VA; and bonus grandchildren, Larry, Ciara, and Shantell Stewart; bonus great grandchildren, Larry, Demontae, and Kristiona.

She also leaves a host of other great nieces and nephews, among them: P'airra Seward, Loren Edwards, Alison Mallory, Isabella Shands, Tremaine Hardy, Stith K. Shands, Cory Smith, Samuel Jr., John, and Noah Mallory; and Aunt Gerry's little bestie, Rilyn Hardy. Gerry cherished her relationships with all of her cousins, among them several devoted cousins — Peggy W. Peace of Brentwood, NY, Lorraine M. Lipscomb of Harrisburg, PA, Amber T. Grobdruck of Palm Coast, FL, Ruth M. Hairston and Earl Thompson of Petersburg, VA, and her goddaughter, Victoria Branch.

Gerry was blessed with many friends who became like family, among them: Paige Harper, Ethel Edmonds, Elder Francine Gomillion, Mrs. Levella "Nicki" Garris, Michelle Branch, Kiasha Mitchell, and Alexis Delane.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Dr. West and his Staff for their compassionate care and support.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Thursday, October 2, 2025, in the Chapel of J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Earl R. Thompson, Sr., eulogist. The interment to follow at Blandford Cemetery.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.