Bobby Newman

Bobby Joe Newman passed away peacefully on June 28, 2023, at Signature Health Care in Cookeville, TN. Born on June 6, 1937 in Cookeville, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose life was defined by his unwavering devotion to his family, his impressive work ethic, and his selfless nature.

Bobby's life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his family. He was the cherished husband of Wanda Willoughby Newman, with whom he shared 42 years of marriage. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Vicki Woolbert of  Darrington, WA, and Rhonda Pennington of Gainesboro, TN and to his step-sons, Mark Oakley (wife, Sheila) and Pat Oakley (Charlotte Campbell) of Cookeville. He loved his grandchildren, Bud Woolbert, Joseph Woolbert, Katie Woolbert-Brinley, and Julianna Fenstermaker; and his step-grandchildren, Megan Broman and Mary Alice Bales. Bobby also had the joy of being a great-grandfather to Jacob, Camaron, Gene, Noah, Baker, Olivia, Scarlett, and Judd.

Bobby was preceded in death by his wife, Gennell Farley Newman, his parents, Rupert and Gladys Means Newman, his sister, Barbara Sue Newman, his sons-in-law, Butch Woolbert and David Pennington, and his step-sons, James and David Oakley.

Bobby was a proud veteran of the US Navy and had a distinguished career with the Tennessee Department of Transportation, where he served as a surveyor for over 30 years. His dedication to his work was evident in his meticulous attention to detail and the respect he garnered from his colleagues. In addition to his career with the Department of Transportation, Bobby also served with the Tennessee National Guard for 40 years, a testament to his love for his country and his unwavering commitment to service.

Bobby was a true family man, always putting the needs of his loved ones before his own. He was dependable, always there for those who needed him, and selfless. He was a hard worker, never shying away from a challenge and always striving to do his best in whatever he undertook.

Bobby's funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday July 1 at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home. Chaplain Jim McAfee will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow at Cookeville City Cemetery. His family will welcome friends Friday from 5 - 7 p.m. and again Saturday from 9 a.m. until service time.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share your condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.