Surrey County Cricket Club paid an emotional tribute on Monday to Lynn Stewart, wife of former England and Surrey captain Alec Stewart, who passed away following a courageous 12-year battle with breast cancer. On the final day of their County Championship match against Hampshire at the Kia Oval, the club flew flags at half-mast and players wore black armbands in her honour, marking a poignant moment for a family interwoven with the club’s proud history.
Lynn Stewart loses long battle with cancer
Lynn Stewart’s passing brought to a close a long and private fight against cancer that began with her diagnosis in 2013. The illness had a profound impact on Alec’s career, culminating in his decision to step down as Surrey’s director of cricket in March 2024 to dedicate more time to his wife and family.
In a heartfelt statement at the time, Alec said, “I want to give her, and my family, more of my time than this job allows.” The decision reflected his unwavering commitment to his family despite an immensely successful stint leading Surrey. During his tenure, the club flourished—winning four County Championship titles, including a dominant run of three in a row from 2022 to 2024.
Surrey mourns the demise of Lynn Stewart
At the Kia Oval on Monday, the mood was somber as the cricketing community paused to reflect. Flags above the Micky Stewart Members Pavilion—named in honor of Alec’s father, another club legend—were lowered to half-mast, and players observed a moment of silence before play resumed.
Club chair Oli Slipper offered public condolences, stating, “We ask that people respect their privacy during this difficult time. The entire Surrey family stands with Alec and his children in their grief.” The Stewart family’s deep ties to the club made the moment especially meaningful for players, staff and fans alike.
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Lynn’s illness remained largely private throughout the years, with Alec only speaking publicly in the context of his resignation. Married for decades, the couple are survived by their two children, Andrew and Emily, who have been kept out of the public eye as the family navigated Lynn’s health journey with quiet dignity.
The Surrey players are wearing black armbands in memory of Lynn Stewart.
As a mark of respect, flags at the Kia Oval are flying at half-mast.
🤎 | #SurreyCricket pic.twitter.com/lwOfD1vSnY
— Surrey Cricket (@surreycricket) April 14, 2025
Although Surrey’s match against Hampshire ended in a hard-fought draw, with Nick Gubbins’ resilient century denying the home side a win, the result felt secondary. Across the ground, the focus remained firmly on remembering Lynn and supporting the Stewarts.
