Donnie is a graduate of Drew High School and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Monticello with a music degree. He was a trained singer and loved to demonstrate for people how he could sing in foreign languages. Donnie played piano, organ, drum, and saxophone. While in college, he was a drum major for the UAM marching band. He loved to "clown" while marching to show off his skills.
Donnie was a member of First Baptist Church of Monticello, Arkansas. He enjoyed serving as piano player and choir director for local churches. Whether singing or playing the drums or keyboard, Donnie always gave his all to his musical performances. Donnie was an Army veteran who served his country during the Vietnam War.
He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Gracie Ferrell Stewart; a son Donald Ray (Kristie) Stewart Jr.; stepdaughters, Mae Ferrell and Patricia (David Rochell) Mays; stepsons, Lee (Vickie) Ferrell and Rodney (Ruby) Ferrell; 14 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, along with other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Chapel with Rev. Graylin Wilson officiating. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery. You can sign Donnie's guestbook registry here on his page.
Condolences(7)
Sherry Higginbotham
Monticello, AR Wednesday, August 27, 2025 My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs Gracie and the rest of the family! I adored Mr Donnie !Marilyn Elaine Matthews
North Little Rock, AR Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Gracie and family:May God give you comfort during this time of sorrow. Much prayer for you all.
Marilyn
Bethlehem Baptist Church
Mansfield, TX Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Dr. Michael A. Evans, Sr., Senior Pastor, Rev. Zachariah Johnson, Executive Pastor, and the members of Bethlehem Baptist Church-Mansfield, Texas extend our heartfelt sympathy to the Ferrell and Stewart family. We are praying for GOD to engulf you with his comfort and peace during this very difficult hour. We remind you that "Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal." May GOD bless and keep you is our continuous prayer.Sherry Higginbotham
Monticello, AR Wednesday, August 27, 2025 My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs Gracie and the rest of the family! I adored Mr Donnie !Martha Barbee
Monticello, AR Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Mr. Stewart was such a kind person & ALWAYS had a smile on his face. Praying for his family & friends.Gwinnett Orr
LITTLE ROCK, AR Tuesday, August 26, 2025 My condolences. Donnie was a long time friend of the family. His talents and kindness will definitely be missed in the city and surrounding communities. Rest well soldier.Christal
, OK Tuesday, August 26, 2025 Sending up prayers 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾