Newton Adnair Collyar

Newton Adnair Collyar, affectionately known as Jewt Collyar and by his military call sign, Moccasin, passed away on October 26, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born on February 15, 1945, Newton was raised in Drumright, Oklahoma. In 1964, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. In 1966, he was accepted into flight school, earning his wings in 1968 and receiving the call sign “Moccasin.” He went on to serve as an F-4 pilot in Vietnam.

In 1971, Newton began his service as a Harrier pilot, becoming one of ten pilots assigned to the 542 Cadre, the first AV-8 squadron. Throughout his distinguished military career, he took great pride in his accomplishments. He often said the highlight of his career was the transition from the AV-8A to the AV-8B, along with the three tours he served as a flight instructor with the 203.

Upon retiring from the Marine Corps in 1986, Newton continued sharing his knowledge and experience as a civilian instructor, training AV-8B pilots at the Learning Center at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.

Newton was a proud Marine and Vietnam veteran. He wore his Vietnam veteran hat nearly everywhere he went, and it was always a special and poignant moment when someone approached him to thank him for his service. Those moments meant a great deal to him and reflected the pride he carried in serving his country.

Beyond his military career, Newton had another great love: sailing. His beloved sailboat, Bifrost, was where he was happiest, whether sailing in the Bahamas or racing on the Neuse River. Those who sailed and raced alongside him will fondly remember his familiar shout whenever the winds picked up: “Put another reef in!” It was a phrase that captured his sailing spirit and will remain a treasured memory for those who knew him on the water.

Newton also enjoyed carpentry and took pride in working with his hands. He created small pieces of furniture, rebuilt closets, and designed and built display shelves around the house. He was a man who enjoyed figuring things out, building things himself, and leaving his personal touch on the world around him.

Newton is survived by his beloved wife of twenty years, Beverly Susan Collyar, and his three stepchildren: Robert Walston of Hickory, North Carolina; Scott Walston and his life partner, Cassie Smith; and Sara Walston and her wife, Clara Walston of New Bern, North Carolina.

He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Cody Walston of Columbus, Ohio; Kaylin Walston of Roanoke, Virginia; Chance Dillion of Roanoke, Virginia; Brayden and Riley Walston of Raleigh, North Carolina; and Kino Walston of Jacksonville, North Carolina. He leaves behind two great-grandsons, Kyson Walston, son of Kaylin Walston, and Weston Walston, son of Brayden Walston and Tori Bennett.

Newton is also survived by his two nieces, Regina Owings and Regina Yauger, both of Drumright, Oklahoma, along with numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Arnollene Collyar, and his two brothers, Dale and Keith Collyar.

Newton was a proud Marine, a devoted husband, and a man who loved his family deeply. Although he could sometimes come across as gruff and stern, those who knew him best understood the love and affection beneath that tough exterior. To those who lovingly called him Jewt Pa Pa, he was so much more than a Marine, a pilot, or a sailor. He was family, and he was loved.

The memories he leaves behind will live on in the stories shared, the lessons passed down, the waters sailed, and the love he gave to those closest to him. His life was one of service, adventure, craftsmanship, and devotion, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Craven County Hospice for the compassion, support, and understanding they provided during this very difficult time. A special thank-you to Karen, Nancy, and Joy. Your kindness meant more to our family than words can express.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation for American Veterans. https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Miller’s Landing at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.

Semper Fidelis, Moccasin. Fair winds and following seas. You will always be loved and never forgotten.

Cotten Funeral Home & crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Newton Adnair Collyar.