Keith A. Newton

Keith Alexander Newton, a devoted family man, master electrician, and proud U.S. Army veteran whose life was defined by deep Christian faith, unwavering service, and a playful, protective love for his family, passed away peacefully at his home in Columbus, Ohio, at the age of 80. Born on the Fourth of July in 1945, Keith leaves behind a legacy of hard work, friendship, love, and loyalty, and is now reunited with his beloved wife of 56 years, Viola.

Keith spent his formative years in the vibrant community of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. He often recalled a loving and carefree childhood, growing up alongside his parents, Gladys and Noubert Newton, his sister Mae, and his cousins Joseph and Randolph, who were raised like brothers. After graduating from Charlotte Amelie High School in 1964, his passion for mechanics led him to study electricity at Dunwoody College of Technology. His studies were paused when he was drafted to serve his country during the Vietnam War.

Keith proudly served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968. Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Viola, on June 14, 1969. While still in St. Thomas, Keith worked for the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and then established his own entrepreneurial venture: a professional diving business called Deeper Cheaper. As a certified diver, he was one of the few electricians capable of fixing sub-oceanic cables. Keith later renewed his commitment to military service, spending 15 years as a recruiter for the National Guard.

In 1986, Keith relocated to Columbus, Ohio, to join his family who had previously moved there. He briefly worked as a clerk while seeking a role that matched his skills. One day, when the store’s freezer broke, Keith’s manager instructed him to call a repairman. Instead, Keith fixed it himself. When the professional electrician finally arrived, he was so impressed by Keith’s work that he declared Keith had done a better job than he would have. The following day, Keith was hired by Converse Electric, marking the start of his respected career in Ohio as a master electrician. He later worked as an independent contractor, earning a well-earned reputation and sought out for complex jobs across the state.

More than his career, Keith valued his family. His strong, loving partnership with Viola was the cornerstone of the life they built together. He and his wife loved to entertain their family and friends. They were renowned for their parties filled with music, dancing, laughter, and plenty of food. He was a dedicated father, attending his children’s concerts and games and taking on long carpool drives to transport his daughter and her friends to Michigan. He instilled in his family the values of hard work, integrity, and loyalty to one another.

A true jack-of-all-trades, Keith was a natural master of water and earth. Whether he was repairing deep-sea cables, executing a complex electrical fix, or tackling intricate carpentry and masonry projects at home, he possessed an unmatched confidence and skill. He was family-oriented and fiercely protective of the women in his life—from scaring off his big sister’s suitors to safeguarding his daughters and granddaughters. He was a genuine people person; any time spent with Keith was a fun time.

He was very strong in his Christian faith, remaining deeply involved in his church, serving as Trustee for several years. He also enjoyed spending time with his comrades at the VFW Post 9857. Keith was faithful in attending meetings, events, and he especially enjoyed the sponsored fishing trips. In his free time, he enjoyed listening to music, dancing, swimming, fishing, and relaxing while watching television.

Keith is preceded in death by his parents, Gladys and Noubert Newton; his sister, Mae; his cousin, Joseph; and his beloved wife, Viola.

He is survived by his five children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. He also leaves behind his cousin Randolph, who was like a brother to him.

Funeral and Memorial Service Details

Friends may call from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, November 20, at Schoedinger Northwest Funeral Home, 1740 Zollinger, Columbus, OH 43221.

Additional visitation will be held 10:00 AM–11:00 AM on Friday, November 21, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 322 Stewart Ave, Columbus, OH 43206. The funeral service celebrating Keith's life will commence at 11:30 AM, with Pastor Snowden Sims officiating.

Interment will follow approximately at 1:00 PM at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 5600 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43213, with full military honors.

A memorial service for Keith will be held 1:00 PM–5:00 PM on Sunday, November 23, at VFW Post 9857, 2330 Stelzer, Columbus, OH 43219.

Floral arrangements may be sent to Schoedinger Northwest Funeral Home, or memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post 9857.