Donald David Newman

On Tuesday, September 11, 2018, back home in his beloved New Orleans, Donald David Newman expired at 9:40 p.m., after a long, difficult battle with cancer. Donald moved on peacefully, with his beautiful wife, daughters and family near.

Known well and to most as Coach New(man) or in his intimate circles as “Duck,” Donald David Newman loved life, family, and “the game.” He spent two decades as Assistant Coach in the NBA; from 1999 to 2016, he served as Assistant Coach in Milwaukee, New Jersey, San Antonio, and Washington. The NBA has lost a good friend. Prior to making the jump to the National Basketball Association, Don spent ten years coaching in the college ranks, and he was an Assistant Coach for USA Basketball during the 2002 World Championships.

“Duck” was the truest fighting buddy and the fiercest competitor/athlete. Coach Newman was a “player’s” coach and a life mentor to many. He was a wonderful man who charmed those around him with his humor, passion and big heart, and he was a most trusted confidante. He was the proudest father, most devoted husband, and always loving of his family.

Don is survived by his wife, Michelle Rousseau Newman; his daughters, Devan Dawn Newman and Chandi Lynn Newman; his mother, Shirley Aubert Newman; his brothers, Robert Anthony Newman, Jr. and Carl Adam Newman. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Anthony Newman, Sr.

There will be no funeral services. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be sent to the Donald “Duck” Newman Foundation, in care of the Greater New Orleans Foundation. Checks can be made out to The Greater New Orleans Foundation, with Donald “Duck” Newman Foundation in the memo line, and then mailed to 919 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130. Credit card donations can be made online at the following link: https://www.gnof.org/give-now/, and Donald “Duck” Newman Foundation should be entered in to the specify the fund field.

Arrangements entrusted to the Neptune Society of New Orleans.