Charles Bennett Newman

 Charles Bennett Newman, age 91, of Athens transitioned to his eternal home on Thursday, August 29, 2024. He was born to the late Otto Elizabeth ( Lockmiller) and Arlie Richard Newman on November 11, 1932. 

He was a proud graduate of McMinn County High School in 1951. He retired as a shift foreman from Bowater in 1994 after working 39 years in the Paper Mill department. He was dedicated to his work at Bowater; however, his first love was the land as he grew up on a farm. He was an accomplished gardener and enjoyed planting and caring for a garden for over 59 years. His vegetables were admired by all who passed by his home on the Clearwater Road. He enjoyed sharing the fruits of his labor with neighbors, friends and family. He instilled this love for the land within the hearts of his children and grandchildren. 

In 1961, Charles married the love of his life, Charlotte Vincent, and together for 63 years they built a family and a life filled with love and laughter. Charles was a devoted father to Vince (Jeannie) Newman and Laura (John) Boyden and a doting grandfather to Brock Newman (fiancé Kristen Contreras), McCall (Ben) Newman Watson, Anna Boyden and Cole Boyden. He was so excited to learn that he would finally become a great-grandfather to Charles (Charlie) Benedict Watson whose arrival is expected in December. 

Charles was a very active member of Allen Memorial United Methodist Church. In his younger years, he enjoyed singing in the choir and attending the Men’s Group meetings. Later, he served on the Church Council and the Trustee Committee where he served as Chairman for several years. He loved the church and wanted the building and the grounds to glorify the almighty God he served. For many years, those passing by the church could see him going quietly about his work. At the age of 85, he helped build the church sign which he was very proud of. His faithfulness will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him. 

Predeceased by his parents, his sister, Callie Newman Wattenbarger and his two brothers, Johnnie Lee Newman (infant) and Kenneth Ray Newman, his legacy is carried on by his loving wife, his children, grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

A service to honor the life of Charles Newman will be held 7:00 PM on Friday, September 6th, in the sanctuary of Allen Memorial United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the church with the service immediately following. The service of interment will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 7th at the McMinn Memory Gardens. Reflecting on Charles’ life during the service will be Rev. Jeff Wright, his pastor during the time when he was most active as a trustee, his son-in-law, John Boyden, and his daughter, Laura Boyden. Serving as pallbearers are Brock Newman, Cole Boyden, Ben Watson, Curt Vincent, Tim Sharp and Casey McDaniel. Memorial contributions may be sent to Allen Memorial United Methodist Church Future Fund, 800 Decatur Pike, Athens, TN. 

The family sends heartfelt gratitude to caregiver Jamie McKee, Hospice of Chattanooga and Family and Faith Homecare. The last few months were made easier by the kindness and professionalism of these nurses and caregivers. 

Charles’ warmth, wisdom and the joy he brought to life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His was a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire. 

Those unable to attend may send condolences to www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/Charles-Newman.  Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home in Athens is in charge of the arrangements.