John William "Billy" Newton Sr.

1952 - 2025

John William "Billy" Newton, Sr.

September 23, 1952 - January 11, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share that John William Newton, Sr., "Billy," of Glen Allen, went home to be with our Lord on Saturday, January 11, 2025, with his children by his side. Billy was a proud and devoted father, grandpa, brother, coach, and friend. His life was defined by his love for his family and his friends, his passion for sports and coaching, and his unwavering commitment to those he cared for.

Billy was born on September 23, 1952, and was the youngest son of Raymond "Bootsie" A. Newton and Nelle H. Newton. Billy was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Carrie Anne Newton; his brother-in-law, Garland Payne; and his niece, Tammy Cooper.

Billy is survived by his children, John W. Newton, Jr. "Johnny," Wendy N. Gray (Ron), and Michael P. Newton; his five grandchildren, Harley M. Hale (Tommy), Katelyn A. Gray, John W. Newton, III "Trey," Adam W. Gray, and Isabella Rose; and his two great-grandchildren, Grady T. Hale and Gentry T. Hale. Additionally, Billy is survived by his three siblings, Raymond A. Newton, Jr. (Trisha), Kenny Newton (Sandy), Laura Jo Payne; and several nieces and nephews he loved very much. Billy is also survived by his three stepchildren whom he welcomed into his heart and loved as his own, Julia A. Paschall (Joe), Curtis D. Meade (Keri), Christopher G. Mouser (Kristin); five stepgrandchildren, Emma Meade, Chase Dubois, Cody Dubois (Karina), Declan Mouser, and Connor Mouser; and two stepgreat-grandchildren, Leona Dubois and Cedar Dubois.

Billy graduated from Hermitage High School in 1970, where he was known for his athleticism and friendship. His passion for football earned him a scholarship to the University of North Carolina, where he played for the UNC Tar Heels from 1970 to 1974 as an offensive guard. Billy's work ethic, team spirit, and devotion set him apart, and he formed lasting friendships with his teammates, many of whom remained close throughout his life.

After graduating from UNC, Billy returned to Richmond, where he would build a successful business career. In 1986, he founded Newton Office Supply, a company he ran with integrity, dedication, and a commitment to providing exceptional service to his customers. He proudly wore a company logo that he lived by, "Big enough to serve you; small enough to know you." Billy took great pride in his work and the relationships he built with his employees and clients, whom he considered his friends.

Billy was blessed with two loving marriages in his lifetime. His first wife, Sheree' T. Gostel (Keith), and second wife, Eileen Newton, both remained important parts of his life even after their respective divorces. Billy's friendship with them remained strong until his passing, a testament to the kindness Billy embodied in his life. Above all, Billy was a proud father and grandfather. He cherished his time with his children, which was evident in how he showed his love. Whether it was coaching their sports teams, being their biggest fan at every extracurricular activity, making "Billy burgers and homemade ice cream" whenever requested, spending hours putting up the train table at Christmas, taking every opportunity available to play a round of golf, or simply being a source of support, Billy was a devoted and loving presence in their lives.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Glen Allen Baptist Church. Visitation at the church will be from 10 to 11 a.m., with the service and reception immediately following. All are welcome to attend and share in honoring the remarkable man Billy was. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. A Graveside Service will be held the same day at Forest Lawn Cemetery at 3 p.m.

Billy was a man who lived with integrity, love, and a spirit that will never be forgotten. His memory will live on in the many lives that he touched.