Stewart, right, poses with Mid-Hudson News publisher Hank Gross
during a summer barbeque
NEWBURGH – Charles Stewart, Sr. of the Town of Newburgh died Monday at St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital.
Stewart founded and published the Hudson Valley Press, first called the Hudson Valley Black Press, for more than 30 years. The community newspaper includes content about the entire minority community of the Hudson Valley – both African-American and Latino.
He also owned and operated WWLE radio, which most recently features a Spanish language music format at 1170 am.
His interests did not stop there. While in his middle age, he earned a law degree from Duke University.
Stewart’s long career in the field of entertainment and communications included co-producing major concerts featuring such artists as George Benson, Natalie Cole, Tom Jones, Gladys Knight and Frank Sinatra. He also performed as a singer in his own right at several profile venues including in Atlantic City and Las Vegas teaming up with the likes of Wilson Picket, Marilyn McCoo of the Fifth Dimension and others.
Stewart also worked in management capacities at other Hudson Valley radio stations before forming his own media business.
He was active in the community, in his church and on government issues having met with President Bill and First Lady Hillary Clinton at the White House.
Mid-Hudson News Publisher Hank Gross was a 42-year friend of Stewart, having worked with him in the past.
“Chuck was a wonderful human being and a loving parent of three terrific children and several grandchildren,” Gross said. “He was a mentor to me on so many levels and we had a longstanding friendship.”
A celebration of Stewart’s life will include visitation for family and friends on Sunday, November 20 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Avenue in Newburgh. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, November 21 at Springfield Baptist Church, 8 Church Street in Beacon. Pastor Ronald Perry will officiate.
