Fred Whitaker Newton

Fred Whitaker Newton, Jr., 80, of New England Ridge, Washington, WV died on January 7, 2025, at his home with his beloved wife Diana Whitlatch Newton and their dogs, Sam and Buddy, by his side.

He was born on August 6, 1944 in Vance County, NC to the late Fred Whitaker and Alice Truelove Newton. Fred grew up as the oldest of four siblings, working on their family dairy farm in Henderson, NC where he developed a strong work ethic and an appreciation for nature that stayed with him throughout his life.  He graduated from Charles B. Aycock High School in 1962. Fred attended Duke University and Campbell College before earning his degree in Applied Math at NC State University.  Prior to retirement he was a computer programmer and businessman, owning and operating F. W. Newton Company for over 40 years.  Mr. Newton loved his family, and his work was his passion.  He loved to solve problems and teach people about what he learned.  He always helped people in ways that they almost didn't realize- oftentimes employing his good friends and family so they could hang out and work to solve problems together.  He loved watching sports and spent many summers coaching kids at Tri-C in softball when his daughters were young. Throughout his life, Fred was blessed with friends that stood by him even in the most challenging times. Their steadfast support and kindness helped him navigate life's struggles, and his family is deeply grateful for their presence and care.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, dog dad, and friend with a dry wit and a great sense of humor.

Fred is survived by his devoted wife of 6 years, Diana Whitlatch Newton; his daughters, Carrie Newton Struble (Earl) of Raleigh, NC and Lillie Ruth Newton (Frank Guzek) of Charlotte, NC; his grandchildren whom he was very proud of, grandson Alex Fisher Struble of Charlotte, NC, and twin sisters, Ellie Rose Struble of Raleigh, NC and Faye Alice Struble of Charlotte, NC. He is also survived by his brother, Dale Alan Newton (Emmie) of Greenville, NC  and sisters Betsy Newton Herman (Dennis) of Candler, NC and Sharon Newton of Charlotte, NC as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Fred was preceded in death by his first wife, Lottie Spence Newton.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Lambert Tatman Funeral Home, south Parkersburg, WV with Rev. Dennis Herman officiating. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Fred’s honor to the First Congregation Church of Marietta Fellowship Hall Fund at 318 Front St., Marietta, OH. 45750 or to the SPCA at spcai.org/donate, or to a charity of choosing.

The family would like to send their gratitude to the nurses and aides of Amedysis Hospice for their wonderful care for Fred that enabled him to stay in his home.

Lambert Tatman Funeral Home, south Parkersburg, has been entrusted with Fred’s final wishes and is honored to serve his family.