In the picturesque Bella Woods Subdivision in Scott Depot, the Stewart family has carved out a cozy haven for themselves. Comprising Ryan, a seasoned attorney, Melissa, a dedicated kindergarten teacher, and their three vibrant children—Emmaline, Benton, and little Evelyn—the Stewarts are a dynamic force contributing to the community's warmth and vitality.

Ryan Stewart, a partner at the prestigious law firm of Bailey, Javins & Carter, has been practicing law since 2007, specializing in representing individuals and families in West Virginia and across the United States who have been catastrophically injured or killed in serious workplace incidents at mines and other industrial work sites. While the primary focus of Ryan’s practice is workplace injury, Ryan also represents clients in medical malpractice cases, trucking incidents, product liability, and class actions.  A Cabell Midland High School alum and a golf scholarship recipient at Marshall University. Ryan graduated from Marshall in 2004 with degrees in both Accounting and Finance. Ryan went on to law school at the WVU College of Law where he graduated in 2007.

Melissa brings her passion for education to Eastbrook Elementary School as a beloved kindergarten teacher. Originating from Indiana, Melissa's journey included a Division 1 basketball scholarship at the College of Charleston, where she was a four-year starter, she graduated with a degree in Elementary Education in 2007.

Melissa shared with Stroll Winfield how she and Ryan met,  "We met by pure luck and chance, Ryan was starting his career as an attorney and was visiting Charleston, SC to attend a continuing legal seminar for a few days. At the time, I was teaching school in Charleston. One evening that week we were hanging out with friends at the same local establishment, and our paths crossed. Ryan asked me to go on a date the very next day, as it was his last day in Charleston, and we hit it off and started a long-distance relationship.” Melissa moved to Charleston, to be with Ryan later that year and they have been together ever since.

The couple, married for over 12 years, shares a love for pickleball, traveling, sports, and family vacations. Their favorite destinations include Wild Dunes in the Isle of Palms, SC, Disney Cruises, and exploring new places together. This summer, they are eagerly anticipating an Alaskan Disney Cruise.

Emmaline, their 12-year-old cheerleading enthusiast, has been cheering since the age of 6, progressing from the Winfield Youth League to the Famous Superstars travel cheer team. She is currently a proud member of the Winfield Middle School Varsity Cheer Team. Additionally, she has ventured into volleyball, showcasing her diverse interests. Emmaline loves spending time with her friends, whether it’s a sleepover or just hanging out and talking.

Benton, 10, loves playing sports, especially football, playing for both the Winfield Youth League and the West Virginia Reapers travel team. He plays fullback, tight end, and defensive end. A multi-sport talent, Benton also excels in basketball, baseball, and golf. Last summer, he teamed up with his dad for the WVGA Parent-Child Championship. Benton is currently playing All-Star basketball on the Winfield 4th grade team, where Ryan is the head coach.

The Stewart’s youngest child, Evelyn, 3, loves hanging out with her big sister and big brother. Her favorite things to do are playing dolls, tag with Benton, or watching movies with Emmaline.  Melissa shared, “You will always see Evelyn in Winfield gear when she goes to watch her older siblings play or to cheer on the Generals. You also may find Evelyn dancing with the cheerleaders or hanging out at the top of the bleachers. She keeps everyone on their toes!”

The family, avid fans of WVU, boasts unique individual sports loyalties, with Benton being a fervent Kansas City Chiefs supporter. Ryan and Benton are both Los Angeles Dodgers fans, while Melissa is an Indianapolis Colts fan from her home state of Indiana.

Family dinners, although difficult to get everyone together with their busy schedules, often feature spaghetti and garlic bread or a delicious steak on the grill.

Beyond their sports and academic achievements, the Stewarts cherish their community involvement. Ryan serves as the President of the Winfield Youth Football and Cheer League, the Head Coach of the Winfield 4th Grade All-Star Basketball Team, and the President of the Bella Woods HOA. Melissa contributes her time to the Winfield Youth Basketball League's Board.  The Stewarts are also members of River Ridge Church.

Reflecting on their family traditions, Melissa shares, "We love the holiday season with our Christmas pajamas, lights, baking, family, and creating lasting memories on our vacations together.”

For relaxation, the Stewarts indulge in grilling and BBQ sessions or embark on weekend getaways to destinations like Columbus – Easton, Greenbrier, or Charlotte, NC, where they enjoy quality time with Melissa's mother and the thrills of Carowinds Amusement Park.

“Our Bella Woods neighborhood has truly become our haven, with its wonderful neighbors and tranquil atmosphere," Melissa commented. As the Stewarts continue to thrive in Bella Woods, Winfield is undoubtedly richer for having this athletic, vibrant, and community-oriented family in its midst.