Richard "Ric" Newby

Richard "Ric" Newby, 59, of St. Thomas US Virgin Islands and a former Savannah, GA resident passed away August 3, 2005. He attended Armstrong College, Savannah, GA. where he received his degree in Art History. An irrepressible spirit, upon completing high school he hitchhiked across America and into Mexico, ending the adventure in California and enlisting in the US Air Force. His service included Southeast Asia during Vietnam at Udon Air Force Base in Thailand. With a passion for art and architecture he was active in many restoration projects in Savannah. As a charter member of a small band of community minded individuals known as the "Gaston Street Gang" Ric and others purchased condemned properties, living in them as they were restored to their initial grandeur. Today, picture post cards of the neighborhood with his former home are sold throughout Savannah, a testament to his determination to make a difference. Ric's passion for art was exhibited in his teaching career. He was always excited for the student that entered an art contest and exuberant when they won a prize for their talent. He would telephone family and friends to share the student's achievement and recognition. For Ric, it was always about the student, never the teacher. He is survived by his father Richard A. Newby, Peachtree City, GA.; brothers Don Newby, Burien, WA.; Mike Newby, Federal Way, WA.; Gary Newby, Pagossa Springs, CO.; and sisters Gentry Geise, Tacoma, WA.; Rosemary Jutte, Snohomish, WA.; and Mary I. Newby-Elder, Minneapolis, MN.; and 11 nieces and nephews. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, August 27, 2005, 2:00PM at Glendalough Manor 200 Glendalough Court, Tyrone, GA 30290. glendaloughmanor.com RSVP to Olin Thomas (703)370-6268 or wot3@aol.com or Don Newby (206)431-5991 or donnewby@msn.com. Savannah Morning News, August 21, 2005 Please sign our Obituary Guestbook at www.savannahnow.com