Barry E. Stewart, 81, of Port Matilda died Wednesday December 21, 2016 at Centre Crest, Bellefonte.

He was born August 28, 1935 in Pittsburgh, a son of Walter and Mabel (Hoak) Stewart. On December 31, 1984 in Julian he married Sherry L. Weller.

Surviving are his wife, two daughters Desiree Johnson, of Graham, North Carolina, Denise Wicks of Greensboro, North Carolina, a son Bryan of Toronto, Canada, twelve grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, five step-great-grandchildren, two step-daughters Jackie L. Weaver and husband Brett of Tyrone, Dana R. Praskovich and husband Matthew of State College and three sisters, Bonnie Brown and Danny Fortson both of New Kensington, and Darlene Teichman of Lower Burrell. He was preceded in death by a brother Homer and two sisters Fairy Goldstein and Esther King.

He was a member of Port Matilda Methodist Church and the Port Matilda Fire Company.

He retired in 1997 from Sears, State College as a salesman. He previously was employed at Kirk's Menswear, Pittsburgh as manager for twenty seven years. He also had worked at Danks, State College, Gordon Jewelers and following retirement he served as a bus driver for Confers Transportation, Port Matilda.

Barry was widely known for playing Santa Claus for many years at the Port Matilda Fire Hall, community events and private parties. His was a passionate Pittsburgh Steeler fan.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday December 27, 2016 at 11 A.M. at Feller Memorial Home with Rev. Sam Reese officiating. Interment will follow at Port Matilda Cemetery. Friends will be received at the funeral home on Monday from 6 to 8 P.M.