Robert "Bob" Newman Jr.

Robert (Bob) Newman, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on October 28, 2025, in Austin, Texas, at the age of 79. Born on December 2, 1945, in St. Louis, Missouri, Bob lived a life defined by devotion—to his family, his country, and the people whose lives he touched along the way.

Bob proudly served his country during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Ranger aircraft carrier. After returning home to his high-school sweetheart and young son, he built a long and respected career as a Central Office Technician with Mountain Bell and Qwest in Phoenix, Arizona. He went on to coach high school baseball at freshman, jv, and varsity levels, always encouraging, teamwork, hard work, and love of the game. Beyond his professional life, Bob found deep joy in coaching both of his sons through years of little league baseball and soccer.

A lifelong fan of baseball (especially his Diamondbacks), the Phoenix Suns, Arizona Cardinals, and Arizona State athletics, Bob also had a tender and reflective side. He loved to read and write poetry, listen to oldies music, and share stories that made everyone around him smile. Above all, Bob was a devoted husband to his late wife, Paula, for 55 years, a proud father and father-in-law to Lance and Jen Newman and Lee and Kristy Newman, and a doting grandfather to Baylee, Jaxson, and Saylor Newman. His family was his greatest joy and his proudest legacy.

A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at a later date.

Bob’s favorite poet, Langston Hughes:

“When people care for you and cry for you, they can straighten out your soul.”