‘Bull Bull’ Stewart dies in sleep
Published:Monday | November 11, 2019 | 12:26 AM
Former People’s National Party-affiliated member of parliament for Northern Trelawny, Wendel Stewart, has died.
Affectionately called ‘Bull Bull’, the former parliamentary representative passed away before dawn yesterday. He was 65.
He had lymed with friends at his car wash on Cornwall Street in Trelawny Saturday night and expressed discomfort when he went home.
“He felt nauseated but went to bed with no sign of distress,” said his sister Clairol.
“At 4 a.m., I heard him cough. I went to his room, held his hand, and it felt cold. My brother was dead. It was a beautiful way to go. God granted his wish.”
President of the People’s National Party Dr Peter Phillips yesterday shared sympathy with Stewart’s family.
“We hold you in our thoughts and prayers during this period of bereavement,” he said.
Vic Rose, a long-time friend, expressed shock.
“I knew he was sick, but when I saw him Wednesday, there were no signs that he was any worse than usual,” Rose told The Gleaner.
Stewart returned from the United States to represent the constituency from 1997 to 2002, replacing party stalwart Desmond Leaky. A founding president of the Conquerors youth club, Stewart sat on the board of the Falmouth Infant School and founded a basic school in New Cargen that is named after him.
He was reportedly an active member of the Friends of Trelawny Association and played a role in the 250th celebration of the parish capital, Falmouth.
After becoming diabetic and having one leg amputated, Stewart lobbied for the rights of the disabled, particularly for wheelchair access.
Victor Wright, the current member of parliament for Northern Trelawny, described Stewart as “a devoted and true People’s National Party Comrade. He did not always agree with you, but that would not dent his devotion to his party”.
Senator Lambert Brown also offered condolences, calling Stewart “a great and humble servant of his people”.