Brian Keith Stewart

Brian Keith Stewart, lovingly known to his 
family as “Keify” and affectionally known to his friends as 
“Don Rico,” was born in Chicago, Illinois, on November 10, 
1970, to John Earl and Bonnie Stewart. Keify grew up with a family 
bond with his siblings and cousins; truly one big family, their home 
was always filled with laughter and love. Keify often talked about 
Sunday dinners and being hugged and loved by his Big Mama, 
Grandma Sister, Auntie Juanita, and Aunt Katie, his “Golden Girls.” 
His family was a special part of his smile.
Brian believed in God; he confessed his faith in Christ at Freewill 
Missionary Baptist Church. Later Brian joined Jesus Christ Missionary 
Baptist Church and was baptized under the leadership of the late 
Archie Matlock, Sr., where he enjoyed singing in the youth choir.
Brian’s education and work history showed his constant 
determination. He attended Oak Park River Forest High School 
and received his diploma. Keify was a go-getter; he received licenses 
in personal physical training and forklift driving. He also received 
certifications in drug counseling mentorship and custodial care. This 
year Brian was conquering his dream; he joined a business venture with 
his favorite cousin/brother, Boykin, and they promoted, marketed, 
and distributed their water, Eleven86, and Brian will be honored in 
the halls of the bottle plant in Autamgaville, Alabama.
In 2002 he met Tomeka, and on November 29, 2012, they were 
married in a private ceremony in holy matrimony… As their love 
continued, they married again on August 9, 2014, and celebrated with 
many friends and loved ones. They shared a family and had a deep love 
for their seven children and eight grandchildren. BRIAN’S GREATEST 
GIFT IN LIFE WAS HIS CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN. HE 
LOVED NOTHING MORE IN THIS WORLD THAN THEM…
Brian had a larger-than-life personality. He had a gigantic heart 
and a happy spirit. He was filled with a glowing smile, joyful laugh, 
was always a jokester, and was very playful. He would do anything to 
make a person smile, truly a people person and friend.
On August 23, 2022, Brian Keith Stewart was rewarded his greatest 
joy. God sent the Angels and said, Chapter 51, “Well done, son.”
Brian leaves a legacy of love to cherish his memory: his loving wife, 
Tomeka Stewart; his mother and stepfather, Bonnie and Anthony 
Morgan; his seven heartbeats, Ashley Stewart, DeShawn (Jessica) 
Stewart, LaShawn Stewart, Brian Stewart, Jr., BriZil Stewart, Bakario 
Moss, and Simone Stewart; his children of love, Gicquari Weeden and 
Maunye’ Cobb; eight grandchildren, Dejah, Skylar, Horace, LayLani, 
La’Kaya, La’Niya, La’ Karion, and Ja’Kobe; his siblings, brother, 
Anthony Stewart, and sister, Sheryl (Derren) Dotson; aunt, Johnnie 
(Gregory) Thorns; godparents, Berlinder and Shirley Hall; godson, 
Dominik Gradford; mother-in-law, Sylvia Weeden; Shirleen (Pie) 
Gradford; Alphonso (Zoe) Duff; and a host of aunts, uncles, nephews, 
nieces, cousins, and friends.

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