Thomas Newton (1928 - 2015)

Born 14 Feb 1928 in Alamosa, Colorado, USA

Biography

Thomas passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning in the company of his wife, sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren after a decade long battle with the effects of dementia. He remained a faithful servant to God his entire life, constantly praying in his final weeks, "Nearer my God to thee from here to eternity".

Tom was born in Alamosa, CO to Frederico and Genara Newton. He had seven brothers and sisters. When Tom was ten years old, his father died so Tom went to work at an early age helping his mother raise and support the family. He served in the Navy during World War II. He married Solema Newton in 1949. They were married for 66 years and had two sons.

Tom and Solema moved to Albuquerque in 1952. Tom was a founding partner of Keers and Newton Painting Company where he worked until his retirement. Tom was a dedicated member of Second United Presbyterian Church which he joined in 1952. He was one of the youngest elders and served the church with every skill he had: painting, remodeling, repairing, securing donations, singing in the choir, ushering, setting up tables and anything else he could do to help. He always said that your duty to the church doesn't end when your committee term ends, your duty to God is forever. Tom was an honorary lifetime member of the Board of Directors at Martinez Town House of Neighborly Service where he used his skills to build programs and serve the community. Tom was selected Volunteer of Year by United Way.

Tom's greatest joys were his family, children and grandchildren. Tom has two sons, Thomas Newton, Jr. and Bruce Newton. Tom is married to Sylvia Newton. They have two daughters, five grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Bruce is married to Judith Parsons and they have two children and one grandchild. Playing with his four grandchildren, six great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren was his favorite activity. He taught them to use their imaginations, be honest and work hard.

Tom is also survived by his siblings, Marsha Martinez, Edith Mondragon and Frank Newton all in Colorado; as well as many nephews and nieces.

Hard work, honesty, dedication, loyalty, kindness, humility, faith in God and acceptance of all people characterized his life. The world needs more people like Thomas.

The family gives thanks to the Alzheimer's Association of Albuquerque, Footprints Home Care, Brookdale at Juan Tabo Place and Gentiva Hospice who supported the family and cared for Thomas in his final years, months and days.

Friends may visit on Monday, November 30, 2015 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at FRENCH - University. Funeral service will be on Tuesday, December 1, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Second United Presbyterian Church, 812 Edith Blvd. NE, burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd. NE. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Second United Presbyterian Church in Albuquerque or the Alzheimer's Association of Albuquerque.

Sources

• Albuquerque Journal, November 29, 2015