James Byron Newton went to be with the Lord on Friday, December 4th, 2015. Jim was born in Memphis, TN, on Sept 2, 1940, to James Richard and Mary Royall Newton. After graduating from Lambert MS High School, Itawamba Jr. College, Jim attended Mississippi State University and received a degree in Industrial Engineering. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 8 years. He met Merry Beard Newton of Columbus on a blind date, thanks to two friends who thought they were perfect for each other! They married in December of 1966, recently celebrating 49 wonderful years of marriage together. Jim worked as an Industrial Engineer for American Bosch, General Tire and Sanderson Plumbing. After a 30 year career at Sanderson, Jim retired in 2003 as the Director of Engineering. Jim loved to hunt, fish, and play golf. Upon his retirement, he had more time to enjoy these passions. As a member of Hairston Bend Hunting club, he shared his passion for hunting and fishing with his son and grandsons. Jim was an avid golfer and longtime member of the Columbus Country Club where you would find him multiple times a week meeting a group of longtime friends for a round of golf, some tall tales and great comradery. Jim was also actively involved in the community. He was a member of the Columbus Host Lions Club for 30 years and involved with Habitat for Humanity, also serving as President for Lions Club and as President of the Board of Directors for Habitat. He was a member of the American Institute of Industrial Engineers, First United Methodist Church and the North Mississippi Emmaus Community and thoroughly enjoyed coaching Little League baseball in his younger years. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Merry Beard Newton, son Tim Newton (Grace) of San Antonio, TX, daughter Nikki Latham (Chris) of West Point, MS, four grandchildren, Christopher Newton (Natalie) of Garland, TX, Brandon Newton, Foster Wiygul, and Alden Wiygul, all of Columbus, MS. Honorary pallbearers are Frank Griffin, Nutie Dowdle, George Bryan, Larry Bennett, Bruce Hanson, Bill Stuart and Arlen Carpenter. The family expresses their sincere gratitude to Cassie Neal, Dr. Brett Brown, and the entire staff at Trinity Healthcare Center. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Monday, December 7th at 2 o'clock in the Chapel at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Glenn Miller officiating. Visitation will begin an hour prior, at 1:00, in Carolyn's Room. Gunter & Peel Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity Healthcare Center at 230 Airline Rd, Columbus, MS, 39702.
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