Thomas Lee Newell

On May 31, 2021, Thomas Lee Newell took his final job at the Pearly Gates in Heaven. Tommy had long-fought the brutal disease of Alzheimer’s. In the end, however, cancer was the ultimate reason for his death. At 65, he fought every step of the way to contain the cancer in his bladder, and though his spirit was strong his body was worn out. He spent his final days holding Barbara’s hand and having his family surround him in love, laughter and tears.

Tommy was born in Jackson, MS on February 3, 1956 and raised by Thomas and Bobbie Falls

Newell. He married the love of his life, Barbara Yarborough, in 1979. Together, they raised 3 children: Ruthie Hamilton, Hope Holcomb and Scott Newell. Tommy’s 8 grandchildren and one great grandchild were his pride and joys. He is meeting 2 grandchildren in heaven. He can be described by his children as the rock of the family.

As an expert Mason, Tommy ran Newell Masonry Contractors for too many years to count and contributed to many works around Jackson, including buildings such as: Belhaven College, St.

Andrew’s Episcopal Church, First Presbyterian Church/Day School, Jackson Fire Stations, post offices and police stations. Tommy never officially retired and continued tinkering around the neighborhood and back yard until Barbara told him it was time to sit down and drink some iced-tea. Tommy was known for ‘never meeting a stranger.’ His kind and gentle spirit was cherished by so many who worked with him or for him. Always seeking to serve others first, Tommy was the first to offer help and the last to take for himself.

Tommy is survived by his wife, Barbara Newell; Children, Ruthie Hamilton, Hope Holcomb and

Scott Newell. As well as his father, Thomas Newell, sister, Linda Theriot and brother, Barry

Newell. His grandchildren include Ashley and Matthew Hamilton; Brennan, Aiden and Tatum

Holcomb; and Thomas, Tinsley and Palmer Newell; great-grandchild Luna Birdsong.

We will be celebrating Tommy's life and saying our temporary 'goodbyes' this Thursday. Please feel free to join us or be there in spirit:

Thursday, June 3, 2021

Parkway Funeral Home

1161 Highland Colony Parkway

Ridgeland, MS 39157

Visitation: 1 - 2 pm

Memorial Service: 2 pm

If you feel so moved, feel free to bless and support Barbara with notes, flowers, gift cards and/or a donation to Alzheimer’s Association.