Memorial

 Marvin Steward, 88, of Cedar Rapids, passed away in his sleep Friday May 1, 2026, at Northbrook Manor Care Center. Services: 11:00 a.m. Saturday May 16, 2026, at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where a visitation will begin at 10:00 am until service time. Burial: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. 

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Dorothy Steward, his daughters, Paula Steward (Ken) and Vonda Steward (John), his grand puppies Macy Gray and Misha Brielle. His sister Donna McCollum (Lindon) of Plainfield, IL; brother Dan Steward (Linda Dianne) of Hermitage, TN; and sister-in-law Vera Steward of Jackson, TN. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Robert Lee (Mary Louise) Steward and Roman Steward. 

Marvin was born March 13, 1938, in Almo (Crockett County), TN, the son of Curtiss Steward and Ray Patrick. He retired from Alliant Energy as a Meter Specialist. Marvin was involved with several community organizations: Hawkeye Labor Council, NAACP where he served on the executive branch for more than 30 years, and the AAHF. Marvin was the 1st President and Co-Founder of the African American Museum Historical Museum and Cultural Center of Iowa. He was a trustee, usher, and faithful member at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. A Mason and Shriner of the Mount Olive Lodge #17; and an Eastern Star Silver Leaf Chapter #5. 

He enjoyed working in the yard mowing, edging, and mole patrol. Talking to family and friends on the phone, rooting for the underdog in sports especially basketball, and traveling with WEBB Alumni. 

Memorials may be made to the African American Museum of Iowa or Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in memory of Marvin Steward.