Cullum No. 23575-1961 April 8, 2023 | Died in  Lynchburg, VA
Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

Alexander James “Sandy” Stuart III joined a nearly 100-man force from the United States Military Academy Preparatory School (USMAPS) as they stormed the gates of historic West Point eager to become new cadets and someday join the Long Gray Line. Sandy diligently trained at USMAPS to be competitive for a rare appointment to the U.S. Military Academy. His desire and determination are a family legacy of his grandfather, Colonel Alexander James Stuart Sr; father, Colonel Alexander James Stuart Jr. (USMA 1934); and two generations beyond serving as Army officers. Memories abound of that tumultuous day, and Sandy drew immediate attention from the upper-class cadets detailed to welcome and train the new cadets because of his 6-foot, 4-inch stature and his obvious military bearing. The senior members of the Corps managed to whip each new cadet into shape for the evening formation on the Plain, at which all swore the oath of allegiance to the country. The Class of 1961 was multi-talented and satisfied stringent standards to be there on that day, preparing for four years of memorable events. Sandy staunchly supported Army athletics and was a four-year member of the Tennis Team, and also played squash. His love of Army Football began here and has carried on through the generations. The Class of 1961 witnessed the thrill of the many fearless Army Football victories and a few hard-fought losses. As First Classmen, Sandy’s class led the Corps as they marched in President John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Parade, and, in June, they were honored to have Vice President Lyndon Johnson as their graduation speaker. 

In the class yearbook, Sandy’s roommate said: “Sandy is a hard, cheerful worker throughout the week, but on any weekend, he is one of the Corps’ most reliable ‘draggers,’ never to be found in his room. Always ready to do a favor for a friend, Sandy’s ambition, love of life, passion for tennis and Army background should give him a real head start in the Artillery.” Upon graduation, Sandy and Linda Wright, the lady he “dragged” (dated) five years, were married in the Cadet Chapel. Together they embarked upon an adventurous and fulfilling 21-year Army career. Sandy chose the Field Artillery branch of the Army. He served with the 3-57th Field Artillery Regiment from 1962 to 1963 and with the 47th Artillery Brigade in 1963. He attended the Field Artillery School and later served on its faculty from 1969 to 1971. His first assignment in combat was with Headquarters Military Assistance Command-Vietnam (1971-72). Sandy served in Vietnam twice. His duties there include the Tet Offensive by the North Vietnamese Army and their Easter Offensive in 1972. In 1974, Sandy attended the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, graduating with honors a year later. During his final assignment, Sandy served in the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff of the Army Comptroller Department of the Army (1977-81). He retired from active duty in 1981 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. During his military service, Sandy appreciated and received numerous awards and citations, though his heart was not concerned with awards but more with the people he served alongside before and after military life. Sandy’s civilian life was innovative and multi-dimensional. He secured a master’s degree at Lynchburg College and became a Certified Public Accountant. After gaining several years of experience, he collaborated with friends to found Huff, Stuart and Carlton Financial Planning that is now HSC Wealth Advisors, in Forest, VA. 

A partner in the firm shared: “Sandy Stuart was my boss, mentor, and friend. I had the privilege of being hired by Sandy at HSC Wealth Advisors, the wealth management firm that he helped build from the ground up. His integrity, calm, and discipline were consistent daily for the eight years I worked by his side. No matter what was happening in his personal life or the business, Sandy was present and treated everyone with respect and care. I rely on what Sandy taught me about financial planning daily. I appreciated his careful analysis and consistent approach to managing our clients’ investment portfolios. Late on Friday afternoons, Sandy would lean back in his chair and tell stories about his time in the Army, his wife (Linda), and his kids and grandkids. I hold these moments close to my heart and consider myself blessed to have such a friend as Sandy.”

His family characterized Sandy’s private life as they lived it with him: “Sandy loved the Lord and was active singing and teaching in post chapels where he was stationed. After retiring from the Army, he was active as an elder at Rivermont Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Lynchburg, VA, where he sang in the choir for 35 years. He was involved with the Missionary Committee, Bible study, and the LIFE Club, interacting with international students from Randolph-Macon College. Sandy and his wife, Linda, enjoyed ballroom dancing, traveling, and spending time with their family.” 

In their 62-year marriage, Sandy and Linda were blessed with a daughter, Sharon Heida (Jeffrey); and a son, Alexander James Stuart IV (Tammy); seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, along with three grandsons and four great-grandchildren by family marriage. A life of service to each other and to our country, well lived. Well done! Rest in peace. 

— Classmate, Friend, and Family