Robert (Arnold) Newman Jr. of Pelham, Alabama died August
28, 2020. He was 93.
He was born July 19, 1927 in Michigan City, Indiana to the late Robert and Minnie Newman Sr. He attended
Elston High School.
He married Norma Jean Meneely March 5, 1945. He joined the Merchant Marines May 1945 and
transferred to the Army in 1946 where he was a cook and baker.
As a young adult he raised rabbits, enjoyed hunting, gardening,
bowling, playing the guitar and organ.
He planned and built two custom homes for his family.
He and his wife owned a hair salon and beauty supply
business. He kept the books for both
businesses while working at Pullman Standard full time.
He was employed at Pullman Standard in Michigan City and
then transferred to Bessemer, Alabama. After
Pullman closed, he worked for Southern Tempering, Inc. as Vice President of
Sales until he retired.
He was active in his church; teaching, sharing his favorite
poetry, and visiting the sick. He became
active at Hunter Street Baptist Church helping teach English as a second
language. He loved sharing his poetry
and learning about people from different cultures. In fact, through a relationship that developed
he became an American grandpa to a Chinese family, Jack, Jin Lee, Jonathan and Annabelle. Many students named their babies after Robert.
Bob was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great
grandfather, and friend. His kindness,
love and commitment to his Savior Jesus was obvious. He will be greatly missed.
Preceded in death are half sister, Renetta Hubbard, wife, Jean
of 54 years, son-in-law, Chuck Masterson, and great granddaughter, Erika Meyer.
Surviving are two daughters Barbara (Terry) Steele and
Connie Masterson; six grandchildren; Rob (Karen) Meyer, Evan (Sheena) Meyer,
Darren (Julie) Masterson, Trent (Tami) Masterson, Angi (Ken) Schrauben, and
Craig (Liz) Masterson; and ten great
grandchildren.
Our family is grateful to all the wonderful caregivers that
helped make our Dad/Grandpa’s final days so happy. Being able to live with his
daughter, Barbara, made our ability to visit him possible during COVID. We
especially want to thank Michelle Watwood for the personal care and love she
showed to him.
Professional services entrusted to W.E. Lusain Funeral Home and Crematory of Birmingham, AL. Condolences
can be made at:
https://www.forevermissed.com/robert-newmanjr/about
No Memorial Service
is planned. In lieu of flowers donations
can be made to Grace Covenant Fellowship, P.O. Box 832, Helena, AL
35080, in memory of Bob.
