Katherine “Kay” Hybart Stewart

June 21, 1957 – June 11, 2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Katherine “Kay” Hybart Stewart, who died on June 11, 2026, in Columbus, Georgia, after an extended illness. Throughout her illness, Kay remained strong and steadfast in spirit. Even in her final days, she told her family and medical team that she wished she could be home tending her flower beds and growing vegetables. She faced life’s challenges head-on and was never afraid of hard work or getting her hands dirty. Her tenacity and grit were truly remarkable.

Born on June 21, 1957, in Polk County, Florida, Kay was the beloved daughter of Alton O. and Mary C. Hybart. She spent her early years in the Bartow area, where she developed a love of boating, fishing, and Girl Scouts. Her family later moved to Lake City, Florida, where she attended Columbia High School and remained a resident and public servant for many years. Later in life, Kay relocated to Gantt Lake and Opelika, Alabama, to be closer to her family.

Kay began her career as an emergency dispatcher before joining the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office in 1979 as a correctional officer. She later moved into law enforcement and became the first woman to serve in the Criminal Investigation Division. In CID, she managed a wide range of responsibilities, including many cases involving violent crimes against women and children. She became a steadfast advocate for victims and found deep purpose in helping remove violent and repeat offenders from the streets. Later, she joined the Florida Department of Corrections, where she retired as a sergeant. In retirement, Kay treasured time with her grandchildren and enjoyed landscaping, gardening, and fishing in the Gulf of Mexico—and anywhere else she could cast a line.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Alton and Mary Hybart; her husband, Steve Webb; her stepdaughter, Yvonne Gallegos; and her special friend, Rachel Rossin.

She is survived by her loving and devoted best friend and husband, Robert “Bob” Stewart; her children, Eryn Hybart Morris (Joe), and Cody Clark Gallegos; her brothers, Tim Hybart (Melanie), and Chuck Hybart (Debby); and her grandchildren, David Daniel Gallegos, Anthony Gallegos, Alyssa Watt, Alex Morris, and Abby Morris. She also leaves behind her faithful companion, Dottie. Many other special cousins, nieces, nephews, stepchildren, friends, and former colleagues will continue to cherish her memory. Kay treasured the memories she shared with each of you and considered them more precious than any earthly treasure.

In accordance with Kay’s final wishes, no formal service is planned currently. If you would like to honor her memory, simply step outside and breathe in the fresh air, plant a flower, go fishing, watch the birds, or spend a quiet moment in nature.