Celeste Stewart Obituary

Celeste Ethel Bilbo Stewart, 83, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, January 14th, 2022 in Carriere. She was born September 6, 1939, in Lumberton, the daughter of Joel and Ethel (Stewart) Bilbo. Celeste was one of twelve siblings and grew up in the Springhill Community where she attended Olive Baptist Church in Lumberton. Growing up in such a large family, she acquired many skills through the years, including sewing, growing her flowers, and cooking. Celeste loved her flowers in the yard, and could cook just about anything.

There were several favorites, but her fried chicken and seafood gumbo were among the best around. She was also quite the seamstress, making most everything in her home by hand. From curtains to pillows, to bridesmaid dresses and so much more, Celeste could make it with little effort. She was a very talented woman that definitely put her skills to use in life. No matter what activity she had going on, Neil Diamond was always there, singing to her in the background. A loving mother and grandmother, she will be sadly missed by all whose life she touched.

Left to cherish her memories are her children, Gary (Robin) Smith, Alecia (Craig) Cairns, and Tony (Debra Law) Smith; six grandchildren, Amber Foret, Nyla Trumbach, Blake Smith, Westley Smith, Conner Smith, and Jessica Smith; three siblings, Rupert Bilbo, Alonso Bilbo, and Patricia Bilbo Badeaux. She leaves a legacy of 17 great grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. Celeste was preceded by her first husband, Billy Wayne Smith; her second husband, Jack Klein; her parents, Joel and Ethel Bilbo; siblings: John Bilbo, Harold Bilbo, Virginia McElveen, Mary Byrd, Jimmy Bilbo, LeRoy Bilbo, Norman "PeeWee" Bilbo, and Monroe Bilbo, with two grandchildren, Patrick and Tyler Gardner.

Funeral services are set for Thursday, January 19th at Juniper Grove Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at noon, with pastor Ken Rhodes officiating. Afterward, Celeste will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Enhabit Hospice, for the devoted care and comfort provided. In lieu of floral arrangements, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to The Dementia Society of America.

Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Smith family in their time of need and asks that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

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