Roland Hawkins Newman

Roland Hawkins Newman, 83, of Lynchburg, Va., passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2009, at his home. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Catherine Noel Newman. Born January 31, 1926, in Bedford County, he was a son of the late Guy Uther Newman and Ruby Hawkins Newman. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Jean N. Shuford. Roland was a devoted and loving father and grandfather. He was happiest when doting on his grandchildren. He was a man of few words and many talents. He played baseball for several area teams, excelling at pitching. He was a self-taught musician, able to play the guitar, mandolin, banjo, and fiddle. People who knew Roland considered him a real gentleman, and invariably commented on his dry wit. In 1945 Roland began his long career at Craddock Terry Shoe Corporation, starting as a warehouse clerk and retiring as President. He was a member for many years of West Lynchburg Baptist Church, and more recently a member of Peakland Baptist Church. Survivors also include two sons, Frederick Noel Newman and wife, Donna, of Richmond, and Donald Vincent Newman, of Lynchburg; his daughter, Suzanne N. Spruell and husband, Edward, of Roanoke; his brother, Cody G. Newman and wife, Dorothy, of Forest; three grandchildren, Caroline N. Spruell, Ansley G. Newman, and Bennett B. Newman; and two stepgrandchildren, Conrad Loprete, and Ronna Nouri. A funeral service will be conducted 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2009, at Whitten Timberlake Chapel by the Rev. Steve McNeely of Peakland Baptist Church. Interment will take place in Terrace View Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends tonight from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home and at other times at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the American Cancer Society. The family would like to thank his caregivers and the staff at Gentle Shepherd Hospice for their support during the final days of his illness. To send a condolence to the family, please visit, www.whittenfuneralhome.com. Whitten Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, Timberlake Chapel, is assisting the family.