Roy Lee Newman, born on May 11, 1935, in Rosebud, Arkansas, died peacefully on Oct. 15, 2025, at home on his beloved ranch outside of Lampasas. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather and uncle whose legacy will endure in those who cherished him.
He will be especially missed at Central Christian Church, where he served for 30 years. His faith in Christ started with his baptism at the age of 15.
Roy began his career in law enforcement in 1962, attending Patrol School in Austin. He was assigned as a highway patrolman in Amarillo in 1963 to begin his public service.
He was promoted to investigator in Lubbock in 1971, where he transitioned into the role of Vice investigator for two years before joining the newly established division of Motor Vehicle Theft.
In 1978 he became a sergeant and later was promoted to commander of the Motor Vehicle Theft Division in 1979, a position he held until his retirement on Oct. 31, 1993. Roy’s dedication to his work not only showcased his commitment to safety and justice but also illustrated his service to the community.
Away from his professional pursuits, Roy was known for his gentle spirit and warm personality. He had a talent for soothing infants, lovingly referred to as the “Baby Whisperer.” Roy had the ability to make everyone feel like they belonged. Family gatherings often centered around his grilling skills, particularly his knack for cooking steaks – which he preferred medium to medium well.
Roy was compassionate and respected by those who knew him. He was known for his wisdom, his dry sense of humor, and his love for puns and corny jokes. His affection was evident in small gestures, such as a hug or a loving touch to the face. “Outstanding” was his signature catch phrase.
Roy is survived by his wife, Michele Newman; daughters Cherri Goodwin and husband Keith, Crystal Lowe and husband Jason, Nan Holloway and husband Bob Cummins, and Rebecca Whitaker and husband Richard Whitaker; his grandchildren Casey Goodwin and husband Morgan McClellan, Connor Goodwin and wife Kailey, Paige Biersdorfer and husband Justin, Ryne Stallings and wife Amber, Korey Lowe, Calli Cannon and husband Steve Cannon, Rachel Tedder and husband Roger, Jacob Whitaker, and John Paul Whitaker and his wife Destiny; and great-grandchildren Cassius Cook, Shay Tully-Goodwin, Wren Biersdorfer, Raelynn Stallings, Camilla Stallings, Cade Whitaker, Randall Tedder, Lena Whitaker, Kenzie Whitaker, Reagan Tedder, Carson Roy Whitaker, Cooper Cannon, Caleb Cannon, Savi Cannon and Greta McClellan.
In addition, Roy is survived by his siblings Robert “Bob” Newman, Kathryn Newman and Patty Vigneau; and countless nieces and nephews.
Roy joins those who preceded him in death -- his wife Melba Jo Newman; parents Rollo and Virtena Newman; brother L. D. Newman; infant brother Ned Newman; sisters Betty Johnson and Mattie Baskin; brother Dan Newman; and grandchildren Clint Goodwin and Keely Groshong.
Visitation will be held at Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel on Oct. 22 from 10-11 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. Roy will be laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery after the funeral service.
Lunch will be served for funeral attendees at Lampasas Community Church’s fellowship hall immediately after graveside services.
