Final Salute

Ned Newsom, 96, died on July 15, 2019, at his daughter’s home in Atlanta, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong resident of Durham, he was born on March 11, 1923, the youngest of seven children, to Annie Laurie Long Newsom and Marion Eugene Newsom.

Ned graduated from Durham High School, Duke University, and North Carolina State University School of Engineering/Architecture. He served as Lt. Commander with the Navy Seabees during World War II. He founded Newsom Construction Company and built custom homes for over 40 years, including the house in which he and his wife Julie raised their family and in which he lived for more than 60 years.

Beloved by everyone who had the good fortune to know him, Ned was a sterling gentleman and a model for how to live a life of total contentment. He leaves behind a wide circle of friends, both young and old, who were entertained by his endearing wit and humor. Forever loyal to his classmates, he never missed a Durham High School reunion until this last May.

He was predeceased by his wife, Julie Cooper Newsom, and siblings Gene Newsom, James Newsom, Annie Laurie Bugg, Mary Toms Campbell, John Newsom, and Nancy Darden.

He is survived by his daughter, Talela “Le” Newsom Carr (Beauchamp); his son, Edward “Eddie” McDowell Newsom (Julia); his three grandchildren, John Cooper Carr (Virginia), Sophie Newsom MacColl (Alec), and Julia Bowen Newsom Rees (Spencer); as well as many nieces and nephews who affectionately referred to him as “Unc.”

Ned was a member of First Presbyterian Church. Family and friends are invited to the graveside service, to be officiated by The Reverend Joe Harvard, in Maplewood Cemetery at 11:00 AM on October 19, 2019, and to a celebration of his life at Hope Valley Country Club following the service. The Newsom family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service.

Original obituary was published in The News & Observer on Aug. 25, 2019