Thomas Marion "Tommy" Newell

Thomas Marion "Tommy" Newell, age 97, passed away peacefully at his home on May 7, 2026, in Mendenhall, Mississippi. Born on October 15, 1928, in Randolph, Mississippi, Tommy lived a long and fulfilling life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a steadfast commitment to his values.

For more than sixty years, Tommy was dedicated to his craft as a mason and owned Newell Masonry where his son Tommy L. worked alongside him, leaving behind a legacy of skill and craftsmanship that will endure for generations. Beyond his masonry work, Tommy cherished the years he spent working with his wife and sons—Tommy L. and Barry—at their family business, Newell Ceramic Supply, where he loved sharing his creativity with others. His strong work ethic and dedication were matched only by his love for life’s simple joys.

As a former Boy Scout himself, Tommy continued the tradition by becoming an Assistant Scoutmaster when his sons joined, sharing many memorable campouts with them. Tommy lived a life defined by integrity, courage, and a love for the outdoors—ranging from gardening and canning vegetables and preserves to hunting. He approached every hobby with care and was respected for his steadfast honesty. His courage was proven when he saved a young boy from a dangerous, flowing culvert. Tommy was a man of high character who never minced words, best remembered for his witty catchphrase when asked if he carried a knife: “I have my britches on, don’t I?”

Tommy’s legacy, fondly held by his children and grandchildren, is the enduring love story with his wife, Bobbie Dean. Through 47 years of marriage—and despite her passing 32 years ago—they are remembered for the daily, unwavering tradition of writing love notes to one another.

Family was at the heart of Tommy's life. He is survived by his daughter, Linda Theriot, and son, Barry Newell; sister, Mary Furr Patterson; grandchildren, Brent Loflin, Candice (Walter) Ladner, Ruthie (Gary) Hamilton, Hope (Mike) Holcomb, Scott (Morgan) Newell, Alexandria Newell, Graham (Tori) Newell, and Blake (Abby) Newell; great-grandchildren, Chyanne (Cameron) White, Joseph Slocum, Walt Ladner, Grace Ladner, Maddyson Ladner, Ashley (Storm) Birdsong, Brennan Newell, Aidan Holcomb, Tatum Holcomb, Thomas Newell, Palmer Newell, and Peyton Newell; and great-great-grandchildren, Rori Slocum, Cadence White, Luna Birdsong, and Walker Browning.

For over 30 years, Tommy shared his life with his devoted companion Carolyn Davis of Mendenhall. Carolyn’s daughter Karen (Richard) of Vicksburg, and their children—Katie Waring, Olivia Waring, and Anna Waring—held a very special place in Tommy’s heart.

Tommy was predeceased by his beloved wife of 47 years, Bobbie Dean Newell; son, Thomas Lee Newell; great-grandsons, Dean Thomas Loflin and Matthew Hamilton; great-granddaughter, Tinsley Newell; parents, Sam and Lillian Garner Newell; brothers, Sam W. Newell and Bill F. Newell; and his son-in-law, Sunny Theriot whom he shared a very special bond with.

May the memory of Tommy Newell bring comfort to all who loved him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Christina Russell, Ms. Shirley and Danny Dickerson of Gentiva Hospice. The compassionate care provided brought significant comfort to Tommy and his family during his final days.

Visitation will be held at 1pm until service at 2pm on Saturday, May 16th at Parkway Funeral Home 1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, MS 39157.

Flowers are welcome; however, donations to the Alzheimer’s Association are appreciated in honor of his son, Thomas Lee Newell.