John D. Newberry Obituary
John Dennis Newberry, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on June 17, 2025, at the age of 77, in Katy, Texas. Born on July 4, 1947, in Springfield, Missouri, John was a man whose life reflected the values of integrity, loyalty, and kindness. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Bray Newberry, who departed on January 18, 2022, and by his parents, Willard E. and Doris M. (Erickson) Newberry.
John’s journey began in the heart of Missouri as he spent his formative years in Poplar Bluff, Charleston, and Sikeston. He later moved to Cape Girardeau to attend Southeast Missouri State University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Education in 1969, followed by a Master’s degree in Counseling in 1971. It was there that he met the love of his life, Mary. They married on June 6, 1970, at the First Baptist Church in Cape Girardeau, embarking on a beautiful journey of love and partnership.
In 1976, seeking new opportunities, John and Mary moved to Katy, Texas, where they planted roots and raised their family. John enjoyed a fulfilling career in the advertising and sales division with Yellow Pages before transitioning to the insurance industry with Allstate, where he dedicated 24 years before retiring. His professional life was marked by a commitment to service and a genuine care for others.
John was a man of many interests. An avid chess player, he participated in numerous tournaments across the country and cherished the friendships he made along the way through online games. He had a passion for woodworking, crafting various furniture pieces, including a fire truck bunk bed for his son, showcasing his creativity and resourcefulness. He was a dedicated supporter of the UHMB Crusader football team, never missing a home game and traveling to multiple championship games, where his spirited cheers could be heard echoing in the stands.
John’s zest for life was evident in all he pursued. In 1975, he climbed to the summit of Mt. Rainier, leaving a piece of his heart and a quote from Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken” in the summit register. He was a pole vaulter in high school and college, holding the Charleston High School record for two years and proudly lettering all four years in college.
His character mirrored his favorite quote: “measure twice, cut once.” John was known for being meticulous in his work, offering honest advice, and serving as a good listener to anyone who needed it. He loved engaging conversations and was always willing to share his knowledge, never letting a teachable moment pass by.
John is survived by his daughter, Barbara Newberry Smith, and her husband, Jeremy Smith, of Katy, TX; his son, Brian Newberry, also of Katy, TX; his cherished grandson, Ryland Rivas of Magnolia, TX; his brothers, Jim Newberry and his wife, Judy Cothern Newberry, of Eddyville, KY, and David Newberry and his wife, Sandy Harvey Newberry, of Crossett, AR, along with their families, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
His love for family extended to every meal shared, especially his favorite: a pan-seared prime rib, which he enjoyed one last time on Father’s Day surrounded by loved ones. A sweet tooth delighted in Blue Bell Vanilla ice cream, often savored during family gatherings. John’s patriotic spirit shone brightly; born on the 4th of July, he was fond of fireworks shows and could often be seen wearing an American flag shirt with pride.
John’s funeral will be held on June 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Tallowood Baptist Church, with Dr. Duane Brooks officiating. Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating a life well-lived, remembering a man whose legacy of love, friendship, and wisdom will forever resonate in the hearts of those he touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John's memory to UMHB Scholarship Fund via:
https://advance.umhb.edu/g/giving
Or by contacting:
Aaron Rodeffer
Director of Fundraising
(254)295-4173
As we say goodbye to John Dennis Newberry, we celebrate his remarkable life, his unwavering spirit, and the countless ways he enriched the lives of those around him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
