Johnny B. Newton

Johnny B. Newton: A Legacy of Strength and Wisdom

August 29, 1934 — January 3, 2026

Johnny B. Newton, affectionately known to his friends and family as John or Johnny B., peacefully began his next great journey on January 3, 2026, leaving behind a blueprint for a life exceptionally well-lived. Born August 29, 1934, in Malone, Texas, to John G. and Annie E. Newton (Garnett), John was a man of quiet strength, steady discipline, and above all—had an immense heart for family.

From Texas Roots to the Pacific Northwest

John’s journey took him from the heart of Texas to the evergreen beauty of the Pacific Northwest. After spending his youth years in Waco and Dallas, he moved to Portland, Oregon as a teenager, where he was ecstatic about joining his younger siblings, although saddened to leave his older brother behind in Texas. 

Shortly after high school, he stepped up to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Air Force in 1951. In 1956, he married Georgia Anna Moore, beginning a legacy that would eventually span three generations.

A Master of His Craft

A man of great skill and quiet intellect, John took immense pride in his work ethic, his versatility and the excellence he brought to every task he touched. Upon his return from the service, he held several jobs here in the Portland area before moving to Seattle to work for Boeing. Later, after returning to Portland with his family, he joined the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU). He was employed as an ILWU Local 40 Marine Clerk for over three decades before retiring in 2000. John was one of six of the first African Americans to join the ILWU, also referred to as the Black Longshore Clerks, a brotherhood that remained strong inside and outside of the workplace. His mathematical skills, camaraderie and deep knowledge of the longshore industry all contributed to the proficiency and mastery of his craft and respect among the Pacific Coast ports.

Family and Knowledge 

While he was a powerhouse on the docks, John’s true mission and first love was family. He cherished and knew the importance of being there for one another. He shared endless stories of his affection for his family, especially his Grandma Littlejohn and Papa, and how he missed growing up with his older brother and younger siblings. 

A fierce advocate for education, he believed that learning was the key to opening every door in life, and took immense joy in seeing his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren lead with their minds.

The Real McCoy

To his core, John took enormous pride in looking sharp, particularly in his younger years. He was always seen with freshly starched shirts and perfectly creased slacks to rest atop his Johnston & Murphy calfskin, cap toe dress shoes. And depending on the time of day and event, his attire would be topped off with one of his selective hats from John Helmer Haberdasher. 

Seemingly always dressed and ready to roll, John was on the scene wherever his destination led him. Probably one of the “cleanest” poker players in town, John truly enjoyed a good game of cards, poker, gin rummy or bid-whist, and have ‘next’ to join anyone who pulled out a box of dominoes. It was known - if you sit down at the card table with John, bring your A-game. While always one to enjoy a good laugh, John was serious about any game he played. Pay attention, or you might find yourself going home sad…and broke! 

After retirement, John continued to be a presence in his community, attending Bethel AME and Vancouver Ave First Baptist churches. An advocate for health, he was instrumental in purchasing the first AED units for Vancouver Ave. Always one to greet you with a smile, he later became one of the faces promoting Meals on Wheels, and was seen on various marketing materials, newspapers, buses and billboards around town.

The Newton Crew

John departed his earthly home to join those who preceded him in death:

Parents: Father John G. Newton; Mom and Pop Albert and Annie E. Garnett

Brothers: Joe Davis Hodges, Ray Garnett, and Lawrence Garnett

His spirit lives on through his loving and vibrant family:

Children: Delbert C. Newton, Margaret LaJewel Newton Lewis, Dawn Newton-Smith (Marichal), and bonus daughter Angela B. Branch.

Grandchildren: Leonard Jett, Brittani Newton, Chauncey Lewis, R. Marichal Smith II, and Jaelyn Smith.

Eight Great-Grandchildren carry his spark.

Siblings: Harvey Garnett, Albert Garnett, Robert (Bobby) Garnett, Beverly Hunter (Charles), Jacqueline Davis, Reginald Davis, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. 

Honoring the Legacy

In the spirit of honoring John’s support of Meals on Wheels, contributions in his honor can be made to the Meals on Wheels People – Martin Luther King Jr. Center, 5325 NE MLK Jr. Blvd., Portland, OR 97211.

With Deepest Gratitude

The children of John Newton wish to express our deepest and sincere appreciation for every prayer, condolence offered, card received and expressions of love. With abundant gratitude, we extend special thanks to Caroline and Henry Maina, and the wonderful staff at Ample Care Home, for making our Dad and all of us a part of their family. Your unwavering kindness and care were a true blessing that we will never forget. We also extend our thanks to the Tenderly Hospice Program, and the entire professional health care team for the physical care and spiritual support provided. 

While our parents’ relationship wasn’t permanent, the two remained a constant in our lives. We want to acknowledge the support of our Mom, Georgia Newton-Smith, for her continued care, prayers and concern for Dad over the years, and our bonus-Dad – Garland “Smitty” Smith, a true friend to our Dad. They always openly extended their home to provide invaluable family support.

We are thankful to Terry Family Funeral Home for the tenderness shown in our time of grief and the humor to make us laugh.

Finally, we thank each of you for sharing your love, kindness and memories with John - our Dad, Daddy, Pops and Papa. His journey was fulfilled.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Johnny B. Newton, please visit our floral store.