William Russell (W.R.) Newman

William Russell (W.R.) Newman, age 76, of Water
Valley, MS went to his forever home Monday, November 28, 2022 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, MS. He was born February 9, 1946, in Paris, MS to the late Willie and Mary Newman.

As a small boy W.R. and his family moved to Water Valley where he played football for Water Valley High School. After finishing school, W.R. faithfully served his country by joining the Army National Guard. W.R. was a hardworking man who had a great sense for business. He began working for Pat Holloway at Holloway Homes where he would become partner. W.R. never shied away from the fact that he was a recovering alcoholic and cherished every opportunity to share the testimony of his recovery. This was such an important season in his life that he became involved with the Branch of Hope recovery center here in Water Valley and was proud to help the residents there. As a God-fearing man, W.R. was also a faithful member of First Baptist Church. When not helping the community, W.R. found great comfort in riding his tractor, cutting hay and tending to his cows, but nothing meant more to him than the family he adored.

Visitation is planned for Wednesday, November 30, 2022, in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 1:00 PM until 2:30 PM. Graveside Service will follow at 3:00 PM with Dr. Randy Bain officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.

William is survived by three sons, Lance Newman (Brandy), Chad Newman (Anita), Tim Bell (Marty); seven grand children; one great grandchild; one brother, Mark Newman (Charlotte); and three sisters, Jane Shields (Carl), Jeannie Newman, and Bonnie Basler (Randy).

As well as his parents, W.R. was preceded in death by his wife of thirty-one years, Barbara Newman; and one son, Jeff Bell.