James Samuel Newman, 98, passed away in Pueblo, Colorado, on February 6, 2021 with his family by his side. He was born September 1922 in Sevierville, Tennessee to Sim and Lola Newman, who both preceded him in death along with his wife, Sara Miller Newman of 69 years, his only brother Carl Newman and son Jerry Newman.
He is survived by his daughter, Jama (Charles) Johnston; Daughter in Law, Brenda Newman; 5 granddaughters, one grandson, 13 great-grandchildren, 14 great-great grandchildren; favorite sister-in-law, Ina Wright and family; numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, many friends and three special friends, Terry Kidd, Glover, and Barbara MacMurry.
He was retired from Belding/ Coats North America where he was Chemical Engineer. James was original founder of Barker Heights Baptist Church and Barker Heights Community Club. He served as a deacon for the church 50+ years before moving to Colorado to be with his daughter and family. He spoke in many different churches to raise money for bibles to hand out around the world. He was a member of the Gideon’s, The Masonic Lodge, American Legion, VFW, Eastern Stars, Scottish Rights, Mason’s, in 1979 he was Master Kingman, Lodge 229, and many other clubs. He was instrumental in the early establishment of the Volunteer Fire Department in Hendersonville County. He was a volunteer of Blue Ridge Fire and Rescue, Habitat for Humanity, Red Cross, Vista, Special Force, and many other organizations. James also received Man of the Year Award in Western North Carolina in 1996. James loved to work with wood, gardening, reading his bible, and cross word puzzles.
There was no stranger to James. James was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, and special friend to all. James will be sadly missed by his family, friends, and Barker Heights Community that loved him so dearly. He was truly a special person.
There will be a memorial service held for James on Monday, August 2, 2021, at 11:00 am at Barker Heights Baptist Church, 215 Glover Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792. Blue Ridge Fire Department will lead the family and friends through the Barker Heights Community to Forest Lawn Memorial Park where graveside rites will be conducted by the Henderson County Honor Guard.
Jackson Funeral Service is assisting the Newman family.