Mr. Napoleon B. Steward

Napoleon B. Steward, a loving father, brother, uncle, cousin, successful business owner, and true friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 84. Napoleon was born on March 20, 1941, in Alamo, Tennessee, to Luther Steward and Addie Mae Dawson, who both preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Pamela Steward (1988), and his sisters, Martha Gregory and Diane Dawson. After graduating from Central High School in Alamo, he joined the United States Air Force in 1961. While stationed in Massachusetts, he met Joanne Jordan. They married in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1965, and three decades later parted ways. Together they had three children: Pamela, Jason, and Kasey. After leaving the Air Force, Napoleon started working hard in Detroit, holding two jobs as a printer and a cook at McDonald’s. He worked his way up to become a regional supervisor. In 1980, he followed his dream and opened his own McDonald’s restaurant, eventually owning several in the Detroit area. He was also one of the early leaders who helped start the Black McDonald’s Operators Association (BMOA), a group that fights for fair treatment for Black business owners within the company. More than any award or business success, Napoleon said his greatest joy was giving young people their first job. He believed in offering a place where they could learn strong values, good customer service, and take pride in their work. His restaurants were known for being the best—spotlessly clean, with amazing customer service and beautiful landscaping. Detroit Edison honored his businesses for their beautiful grounds, and he won their Detroit Beautification Award ten years in a row. He was most proud of watching hundreds of young employees grow into responsible, productive adults. Those who knew Napoleon called him “Stew”. He was a man of few words but great kindness, wisdom, and generosity. Family always came first to him. He loved family gatherings and taught everyone about responsibility, honesty, and keeping your word. His family wishes to give special thanks to his nephew, Kenneth Gregory, for his great love and support during this difficult time. After retiring in 2000, Napoleon returned home to Alamo, Tennessee, where he lived a quiet life surrounded by loved ones. As we say goodbye, we find comfort in this Bible verse: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or sadness. There will be no more crying or pain, because the old way of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4 He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his children, Jason Steward, and Kasey Steward, his daughter-in-law, Jessie McKinney, whom he loved as his own, his brother, Floyd Steward, his sister, Jimmie Mae Hudson; and a loving crowd of nieces, nephews, and cousins, including the children of his late sisters Diane Dawson and Martha Gregory, the family of his brother Floyd Steward, and his caring nephew Kenneth Gregory. He is also remembered by countless friends, former employees, and all whose who knew him

Mr. Napoleon B. Steward

March 20, 1941 - January 25, 2026