Joe Newlon, affectionately called “Papa” by his four children, was born and raised “on the hill”, a farm located off Newlon Lane on the outskirts of town. Growing up, he was called “Go Joe” by his parents (Walter and Alma) and seven siblings because he was always “on the go”. Like his brothers and sisters, he helped with all the chores around the farm while a student at Trusty Elementary then Fort Smith High School. During this time, he and his family were faithful members of First Baptist Church which he continued in that capacity throughout his life. Growing up in this manner brought him to maturity whereupon he volunteered to serve our country during World War II as a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy.
At the conclusion of the war and his honorable service, Joe returned home to work and start a family. He married Betty McAllister and went to work for Bell Telephone Company, working for them until his retirement. During this time he raised four children: Debra, Priscilla, Joe Mike and Noel. He was a devoted husband and loving father, ensuring that his family was well provided for--both practically and spiritually. Upon his retirement, he and Betty became active members of the Pioneer Club for Retirees, continuing his association with the people who worked for the phone company. Around the house he was known as “Mr. Fix It” because of his uncanny ability to repair almost anything that became broken.
Throughout his adult life he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He liked to go fishing, and he enjoyed playing golf and camping, as the outdoors was considerably pleasing to him. He also enjoyed reading and learning new things. His favorite book was the Bible, which he faithfully read up until his passing. His last remaining days were spent at Brookdale assisted living home with his loving wife, Betty. Throughout his stay there, he was always positive, friendly and appreciative of the help he received from the staff, always telling them “thank you” no matter how large or small their service was to him. In closing, Joe was a sincere, genuine, honest, hard-working and compassionate man.
Graveside service with military honors will be 2:00 pm Monday, March 26, 2018 at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Fentress Mortuary.
Joe is survived by his wife Betty of the home; his daughter Priscilla Hightower and her husband Hoyle Wayne of Van Buren; two sons Joe M. Newlon and his wife Deborah of Jonesboro and Noel Newlon of North Little Rock; one brother Jerry Newlon of Memphis, TN; his five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Eustes Newlon and Alma Venie Hopkins Newlon; one daughter Debra Newlon Cole; his three sisters: Gretchen Freeman, Dora Mae Pemberton and Marcia Grant; and three brothers: Graydon, Jack and Norman Newlon.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to the First Baptist Church Homebound Mission 1400 Grand Ave. Ft. Smith, AR 72901.
