Barbara Ann Newman, 83, of Columbus, Indiana, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, at The Belmont. Born on December 19, 1941, in Indianapolis, Barbara lived a life full of love, creativity, and devotion to her family and community.
Barbara was a dedicated worker, retiring from COSCO after more than 30 years of loyal service. Prior to her time at COSCO, she worked at the Columbus Shirt Factory in the Roviar Building, where she began building her reputation for diligence and dependability.
A longtime member of 6th Street General Baptist Church, Barbara expressed her faith not only through worship but also through music—often playing her guitar during church services. Her many passions included quilting, crocheting, painting, crafting, and fishing. She had a deep love for wildlife, often finding joy in feeding animals around her home. In her younger years, she even had a thrill-seeking side, enjoying motorcycle rides and dirt track stock car racing.
Barbara's greatest pride was her family. She is survived by her two children, Wanda (Todd) Barkes and William (Tonya) Newman, both of Nashville, Indiana; six grandchildren, Sophia (Seth) Johnson, Nathan (Joanna) Spalding, Billie (Kane) Crabtree, Liza (Cody) Murphy, Chad (Marley) Newman, and Malachi Barkes; and 13 cherished great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Leonard G. Newman; her children Johnny Newman, Mike Newman, Bobby Newman, Linda Muir, Richard Newman, Debbie Newman, and Sharon Newman; her brother, Jack Feasel; and sister-in-law, Emma Feasel.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Myers-Reed Chapel with Pastor Robert Hensley officiating. Burial will follow at New Bellsville Cemetery in Nashville, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service on Friday at the funeral home.
In memory of Barbara, memorial contributions may be made to Riley Hospital for Children or the American Macular Degeneration Foundation.
Barbara’s legacy of warmth, strength, and creativity will live on through the many lives she touched.
Please leave a fond memory of Barbara at www.Myers-Reed.com.
