Elizabeth City schools superintendent dies at 67

Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools Superintendent Tony Stewart died in his sleep Saturday after a long illness.

Stewart, 67, had been on leave since December after being hospitalized with pneumonia near family in Warrenton, Va., school officials said in January.

Stewart's passing was announced in a statement released today by schools spokeswoman Angela Noblitt. More information would be released after funeral arrangements were made, she said.

School Board Chairman Mark Small expressed sadness at Stewart's unexpected passing.

"He was a wonderful superintendent," Small said. "He was a student's superintendent if there ever was one."

Stewart had been superintendent in Elizabeth City for nine years.

"We knew he was very ill," said Bill Luton, a member of the Board of Education. "We were hopeful he could retire and enjoy his retirement. We never knew it was terminal."

Assistant Superintendent Linwood Williams has served as acting superintendent during Stewart's absence.

"Almost every time Dr. Stewart spoke publicly, he discussed the importance of making a difference in the lives of others," Williams said in a statement. "Dr. Stewart lived by that philosophy - he made a positive impact on the lives of our students and staff for nine years."

Williams will be appointed to interim superintendent until the position can be filled permanently, Small said.

Jeff Hampton (252) 338-0159, jeff.hampton@pilotonline.com