Columbus Newton

Columbus “Lummy” Newton passed away Monday, October 16, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family to be reunited with the love of his life, Ella Newton.

Graveside service at 3:00 PM on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at Edgecombe Memorial Park with Rev. Michael Robbins officiating.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Ella Taylor Newton; daughters Vickie Briley and Darlene Butler; mother, Lily Gardner; father, Jennis Newton; brothers, Jennis Newton, Jr and Albert Newton; sister Mary Minshew; grandson, Brad Butler.

Lummy was born in Edgecombe County on August 12, 1941 to Jennis Newton and Lily Gardner. He retired from Superior Cable at the age of 62 to enjoy a new phase of life with his wife. Lummy, in his early years loved and enjoyed playing music with his hometown band, “The Ramblers”. He traveled with his band many years throughout the area singing lead and playing guitar. He would eventually begin singing and playing his guitar in church after accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He also enjoyed his time at his Crystal Beach vacation home where he and his wife hosted many family events treasuring his moments with the ones he loved.

He leaves behind to cherish and keep his memories; his daughter, Deborah Newton Holloman of Tarboro; grandchildren, Billy “BJ” Smith, Jr. (Annette) of Luttrell, TN, Shannon Cash (Cody), Brandon Smith (Kaitlyn), Tonya Owens (Jamie), Bobby Allen, Jr., Victoria Allen, Christopher Allen, Michelle Driver (John), Amanda Butler (Brian) all of Tarboro, NC. 22 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson.

Visitation will 2:00 - 3:00 PM on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Edgecombe Memorial Park.

Special thanks to Gentiva Hospice who undoubtedly have some of the most wonderful professionals in the business. To the ones who called him granddaddy and became more than nurses and aides, you became family; Danitha, Tansy, Denise, Cindy, Brenda, Mr. Ed, Allison, and Candy. Thank you for taking such tender and loving care of Columbus Newton.

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