Robert L Newton, 89, of Reading, PA. passed peacefully in his sleep Wednesday, September 8, 2021. Bobby was born February 2, 1932 in Marion, South Carolina to Hoyt Newton and Eleanor Mitchell. Later he was raised by his late Uncle and Aunt, Richard Caswell and Jesse Mitchell. Cousins, turned siblings were… Richard Caswell, Mari, Jimmy, David, Lester, Chester, Emma, Benny, and Dolores.
He moved to New Jersey where he attended Salem High School, but soon after realized his love for music. He started off singing gospel in the church, as his natural God given talent grew. He moved to Reading, learned how to play the saxophone and the flute while following his dreams of entertainment. He was a founding member of the group, The Crowns of Israel. Newton went on to perform on the same stages as The Soulsters, James Brown, Lou Rawls, Patty Labelle, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and Wilson Pickett. He later recorded with Mercury and Atlantic Records.
He often played all over the country, different venues, and even on military bases as a way to thank our Armed Forces. He traveled and entertained crowds internationally for many years. Later forming a group called Phase 5 featuring Bobby Newton. He never stopped singing, but he worked during the day for Dana Corporation for years before he retired and returned more full-time to performing and singing. Most recently he teamed up with a powerhouse of talent, establishing the group, Mr. Togetherness and 3 The Hard Way. They performed on a regular basis, drawing crowds of all ages.
All in all, Bobby Newton has become an icon in Reading, and all over the country mentoring many fine artists.
Bobby loved music, and performing was his passion! “If I’m enjoying what I’m doing, it will touch my audience,” he would say.
His music and performances will live on forever! He loved people, and had a heart of gold. Living by the Golden rule scripture Matthew 7:12, ”Therefore all things whatsoever he would that men should do to you, do you even so to them.“
He was a people person, and was truly loved by so many, we know he will be missed. Robert was preceded in death by Shirley Newton, Doris Jackson Newton, and 2 daughters, Diane Lockhart, and Bonnie Newton.
His long and beautiful life will be forever cherished in the lives of his children. Howard Charles and his wife Charlotte of Pottstown, PA, Eric Jackson and his wife Sally of Reading PA, Nikki Jackson Gaalaas and her husband Anthony of Punta Cana DR, and Bobby Jackson of Reading, PA.
Two of his many wonderful grandchildren, Hamilton Newton and his wife Candice of Reading, and Bianca Charles and her husband Mustafa of Pottstown, have had a special bond with “Pops” as if they were his very own.
He is survived by 22 amazing grandchildren, 21 sweet great-grandchildren, and a list of other devoted family members and very close friends.
A closed casket burial service will be held Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 10am.The processional starting at Theo C. Auman, 247 Penn St., Reading, PA 19601 at 9:15am. Those not joining the processional at the funeral home, please meet at the entrance of Forest Hills Memorial Park 391 W. Neversink Rd. Reading PA, 19606. MASKS REQUIRED.
There will also be a Celebration of Life Tribute at the Doubletree Hotel 701 Penn St. Reading, PA. 19601 on Wednesday, September 22 from 6pm to 7:30pm. Masks are required at both the service & the Celebration.
Donations and Flowers can be sent to Auman care of Bobby Newton. www.theocauman.com
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