John Reid Stewart was born around 1824 in Scotland. He was one of a number of children born to Robert and Margaret Stewart who were farmers in Scotland.  He immigrated with his parents to Canada in 1833 and moved to this area around 1871.

He married Sarah Hollwell in 1860.  Sarah was born around 1843.  Her father Thomas Hollwell was of English decent. The Hollwell family lived in Shakespeare.

John Reid Stewart was commonly known as J. Reid Stewart.  He began his career as an agent but for most of the 36 years that he lived in Stratford he was an accountant.

According to his obituary, Mr. Stewart was widely known in Stratford and around the countryside.  He was associated with the Beacon for many years, a liberal in politics and of a genial disposition.  He was well liked in the community.

Together J. Reid and Sarah Stewart had four children.

Alice E. Stewart, the oldest, was born about 1863.

Frank B. Stewart, was born about 1872. He grew up to be a telegraph operator and married Cynthia Jane Soper. They had at least one child Bernice M. Stewart born in 1910.  Frank and his wife resided in Leeds, Ontario.

Margaret E. Stewart was born about 1876. Margaret contracted TB and spent time in the sanatorium in Goderich, Ontario. 

The youngest child, Mary Louise Stewart was born on March 19, 1881.
Mary changed her name to Lowryse Stewart.  She remained living with her parents at 245 Ontario Street until close to the time that they both passed.

Sarah A. Stewart died on December 25, 1909. She was 66 years of age.

John Reid Stewart died on April 16, 1910 at the age of 82. He had become ill after walking to poll his vote on the Hydro-electric bylaw.  He is buried in Avondale Cemetery.