Darryn Stewart

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darryn Stewart, age 54, of Passaic, NJ.

Darryn passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 18, 2024 at his home in Passaic, NJ. He was born at The Barnet Hospital in Paterson, NJ and raised in Passaic where he attended Passaic High School as a young man. While at Passaic HS, he was a member of the Varsity Football Team and proudly wore number 76 as an offensive and defensive lineman. After graduating in 1988 he worked in security for several years in addition to a variety of other ventures. 

Darryn had always believed in love, although he never expected to find it online. When he met Marlyse in 2008, an instant connection sparked between them. Marlyse knew the moment she met him that he would be the person she would marry. As fate would have it, they fell in love and on February 27, 2010 they exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by family and friends at Bridgeway Community Church in Haledon, NJ.

Shortly after they were married, the newlyweds purchased their first home in Passaic, NJ and resided there for the duration of their marriage. Darryn and Marlyse cherished 14 years of a loving and loyal marriage to each other. 

Darryn loved to fish. With Marlyse at his side, they enjoyed many afternoons fishing together at their favorite spots in North Haledon and Franklin Lakes. When they weren't fishing, they often woke up early excited to look for hidden treasures at flea markets and garage sales. Marlyse and Darryn also spent many adventures at Garret Mountain and Third Ward Park enjoying bbq's and blue claw crabs, Darryn's favorite. During the summer months they enjoyed watching fireworks and during Halloween and Christmas they would drive around and look at the decorations and lights.

Darryn and Marlyse also found joy in their shared evenings together. They often would settle in and watch various shows about the adventurous lives of people who lived in the wilderness, with some of their favorites being Alaska: The Last Frontier, Mountain Men, and Alaskan Bush People.

They also loved to watch their favorite sports teams play. When it came to baseball, they both rooted for the New York Yankees. But when it came to football, they disagreed. Darryn was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan through and through. He would root for the New York Giants, Marlyse's favorite team, but when the teams played each other, which is twice a season, things at the house would get interesting. 

Darryn was also an avid fan of music. He loved all types of music and would have the  radio on 24/7. His favorite artist was Keith Sweat. One night Darryn called the radio station to make a song request and Keith picked up the phone. They spoke with each other for more than a few minutes. Darryn was elated and the conversation left a lasting impression on him.  

Darryn was a very kind and caring person. His kindness made him a truly special person, one that would leave a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Darryn also made Valentine's Day, anniversaries, and birthdays very special for Marlyse. His gestures were sentimental, and gifts were thoughtful and personalized. 

Darryn is survived by his wife Marlyse Vanderwal of Passaic, NJ, his daughter Dasia Stewart of Orange, NJ, his son Darryn Stewart stationed in Guam with the US Navy, his son Dazire Stewart (aka Nunu) of Orange, NJ, his brother Dexter Stewart of Pennsylvania, his brother Dorian Stewart of Paterson, NJ, and three granddaughters. He was predeceased by his parents Willie and Polly Stewart.

Those who wish to make donations in Darryn’s name are asked to consider Bridgeway Community Church, 381 Haledon Ave, Haledon, NJ 07508.