James G. Stewart, 73, former CFO of Cigna
James G. Stewart, 73, of Bryn Mawr, former chief financial officer of Cigna Corp., died Saturday, March 5, of cancer at home.
James G. Stewart, 73, of Bryn Mawr, former chief financial officer of Cigna Corp., died Saturday, March 5, of cancer at home.
Mr. Stewart joined Connecticut General Life Insurance Co. in 1966. Sixteen years later in 1982, Connecticut General merged with the Insurance Co. of North America to form Cigna.
Mr. Stewart held a variety of positions in the reinsurance, group insurance, group pension, individual life insurance, and investment operations.
The year after the merger, Mr. Stewart was elected executive vice president and corporate CFO, a role in which he was responsible for Cigna's overall financial management.
During the 1990s, Stewart and other officials trimmed the firm's holdings so that Cigna could emerge as a specialist in employee benefits.
When Mr. Stewart retired in 2002, chairman and chief executive officer H. Edward Hanway praised him for playing a significant role in helping Cigna become an industry leader.
"Without question, he has made strong contributions to our success over the years through his skill and commitment to our businesses. We wish him all the best in his retirement," Hanway said in a statement issued Oct. 23, 2002.
Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., Mr. Stewart was the son of Gathings and Mary Lib Stewart. He was proud of having become an Eagle Scout, his family said.
In 1964, he graduated with honors from DePauw University. He earned a master's degree from the University of Michigan in 1965. He was a fellow of the Society of Actuaries.
A man of intellect and integrity, he had many interests, including fly fishing; traveling; caring for Murray, his Portuguese water dog; cooking, and fine dining. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his family.
"He was a mentor, good friend, and inspiration to many," his family said. "He will be deeply missed."
He is survived by his wife, Andrea Anania Stewart; sons John, David, and Mitch; daughter Becca; 10 grandchildren; a brother; and a sister. His first wife, Janet, from whom he was divorced, died in 2010.
A memorial celebration will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 2, at the Merion Cricket Club, 325 Montgomery Ave., Haverford. There will be memorial remarks at noon. Burial is private.
Donations may be made to the Pennsylvania SPCA, 350 E. Erie Ave., Philadelphia 19134.
610-313-8102