Photo courtesy of Hawthorne Funeral Home - Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, Washington
Jun 6, 1932 – Jul 11, 2023
Della M. Newman, a prominent businesswoman and our 17th U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand, passed away on July 11, 2023, in her home in Bow, Washington in the presence of her loving family. Della’s was a life well lived. Born in Seattle on June 6, 1932, she attended Garfield High School and the University of Washington. After school, she engaged in numerous successful business ventures, including owning and serving as president of Village Real Estate, Inc. and a term as president of Executive Women International.
A close personal friend of George HW (41) and Barbara Bush, Della was actively involved in politics on both the national and state levels, including serving as a Washington state delegate to the Republican National Conventions (1980, 1988), chair of the Washington State George Bush for President organizations (1980, 1988), and manager of numerous local campaigns. She also served on the TVW and Washington Institute for Policy Studies boards.
Shortly after his election in 1988, President Bush asked Della to serve as our ambassador to New Zealand. After her nomination was confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Ambassador Newman flew to Auckland, where she was personally greeted at the airport by the then Prime Minister, Jim Bolger. She served with distinction until December 1992.
Above all else, though, Della loved her family. We are so happy now that she is once again with her beloved husband, Wells McCurdy (1919-1998). She leaves behind her daughter, Gretchen MacDonald; son, Ted Newman; and grandchildren, Andrea, Barret, and great grandson, Waylen.
The family has requested that any remembrances be made to Hospice of the Northwest, 227 Freeway Dr Suite A, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.
Read MoreDella was my mom´s good friend her whole life. Though I´m not sure exactly when they met- it was early in their lives. They had lots of fun together and I can still hear her laughing with mom as they played cards. She was always so loving to me. I was sad to hear of her passing. Blessings to her family
Mimi Altice
December 18, 2023 | Friend
Della was our mother's best friend starting when they were in high school. They raised their children together, and had many adventures together. Our mother and one sister & husband visited her in New Zealand, where Della welcomed them and taught them about the culture. They were big bridge players, and continued well into their 80's. Della was a roll model to all 6 of us Thomas kids and will be remembered with fondness.
Sue Lebow
December 17, 2023 | Friend
Our deepest condolences go out to the family of our dear Della. She was always so positive & encouraging. We absolutely felt that we were blessed by knowing her. Blessings to all of you. Charlie & Jeannie Boon
Charlie & Jeannie Boon
July 19, 2023
Hello Ted Newman. Sorry to read about the passing of your mom. Bill Baker
Bill Baker
July 17, 2023 | Seattle, WA
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Della was an inspiration to all of us and she and Dad were true leaders in the conservative movement in America. Love, Claire and Bob
Claire and Bob Eberle
July 16, 2023 | LaConner, WA | Family
Della was our second Mother and held a very special place in our hearts, she inspired me and supported me in my endeavors to make our country strong. We will miss her until our graduation day comes.
Dennis & Roann Gwin
July 16, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful woman and superior Ambassador. Your business
legacy will be long remembered. Now you are eternally reunited with your loving partner and husband, Wells McCurdy. Heaven and angels now sing with joy and we love you and miss you always.
Love, Bruce McCurdy
Bruce McCurdy
July 16, 2023 | Lynnwood, WA | Family
She was a force of nature and a lovely human being.
Gretchen MacDonald
July 15, 2023 | Vashon, WA | Daughter
My Condolences to the family of Della. She had a long and properous life. God blessed her for sure.
It is so difficult to have a loved one pass on ahead, but we too will also do the same soon, maybe too soon.
May we all be ready, by the grace of our Lord Jesus that tells us in Romans 10:9-11 and John 3:16 that we can have eternal life after this life we now live. May our God give you a special peace and great hope at this time.
Joe T Massey Bruce Mississippi
July 13, 2023 | Bruce, MS