Douglas Richard Newberry, 82, of Nashville, TN, passed peacefully on September 17, 2024, at Alive Hospice, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on July 21, 1942, in Paragould, AR, Doug was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful follower of Jesus Christ, whose life reflected his deep love for God and his family.
Doug is survived by his loving wife of nearly 61 years, Sue Newberry, his two children, Rick Newberry (Janine) and Kristi Holzimmer (Kevin) and his four cherished grandchildren, Caleb Newberry, Ben Newberry, Henry Holzimmer, and Aalina Holzimmer. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon Johnson (Glen) and their son David.
Doug is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ruby and Lowell Newberry.
Doug’s life was shaped by his strong Christian faith and his dedication to serving his country and family. After graduating from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a degree in Accounting, Doug earned an MBA from Syracuse University. His distinguished career included serving as Deputy to the Commander at Tank Automotive & Armaments Command (TACOM) in Warren, MI, and upon his retirement from the Department of Defense, his career continued as Director of Strategic Initiatives for Stewart & Stevenson, among other roles.
A proud veteran, Doug entered active military service in 1964 as a Field Artillery Officer. He served with honor in Vietnam as part of the 101st Airborne Division. Doug’s military service was a source of great pride for him and his family.
After facing significant health challenges, including congestive heart failure and receiving an LVAD in 2018, Doug remained steadfast in his faith and grateful for the extra six years he was blessed with. These “bonus” years were filled with precious moments spent with his family, whom he loved dearly.
Doug was known for his love of reading, especially Christian devotionals and books about Bible prophecy, as he longed for the return of Jesus. His favorite scripture was Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” His unwavering belief in God’s goodness gave him peace throughout his life and comfort in his final days, knowing he was ready to meet his Savior in his eternal home.
Doug will be remembered as a devoted “Gramps” to his grandchildren, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and a man who always put family first. He cherished family trips, especially to Disney World and Gatlinburg, and made Christmas gatherings a treasured tradition at his home in Antioch, TN.
A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at Brentwood Baptist Church in Brentwood, TN, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. Pallbearers will be Caleb Newberry, Ben Newberry, Henry Holzimmer, and Kevin Holzimmer. Doug will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Cleveland, TN.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Brentwood Baptist Church Library, honoring Doug’s legacy of faith and love.
To leave a condolence, or share a memory of Doug, please visit the Tribute Wall. https://www.austinfuneralservice.com
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