Ernest Alfred “Al” Newman, Age 74, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, February 26, 2026, after a long illness, at Hubbard Hospice House, surrounded by family and friends. Born on April 15, 1951, he is preceded in death by his parents, William E. “Bill” and Helen Parsons Newman, and brother William Everett Newman.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Shelley (Hudson) Newman, son Brian (Kristie) Newman, daughters Amy Hamilton and Holly Fields. Grandchildren, Sheridan Newman, Blake Newman (Nicole Detty), Rylee Hamilton, Jacob Fields (Lyndi), Allison Fields (Thomas Williams), Hunter Fields (Breelyn Board), Step-grandson Jonathan Legg. Great grandchildren, Maddy Legg, Cash Adkins and Blair Adkins.
A 1969 graduate of George Washington High School, Al worked as a route salesman at RC Cola for 30 years before becoming disabled in 2001. He always had an easy laugh, and occasionally a flare-up of a quick temper, after which he immediately apologized to the offended party and told them how much he loved them. Always forgiven, many humorous stories have been shared of such incidents by those who have known him well.
Al enjoyed taking his pride and joy 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air to regional and local car shows with his best friend since early childhood, Randy Sheppard. He enjoyed the camaraderie of a very close-knit group of friends, whose interests centered around working on their cars and traveling together to events that provided an opportunity to feature them, and a chance to enjoy good times together. He will be missed by a host of friends and relatives.
The family would like to acknowledge and express gratitude for Dr. Julie Haddy’s compassionate care, as well as to thank the staff of Davita Dialysis Center, South Charleston, WV, where he was treated and developed many close relationships over the past seven years.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, March 7. Friends may call at 2 PM with service at 3 PM. Dunbar First Church of God, 1234 Payne Avenue, Dunbar, WV 25064.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Hubbard Hospice House: hospicecarewv.org
Dear Shelley and beloved family, our hearts are heavy with the loss of Uncle Al. Throughout these many years, we have shared happy memories and sad times. Al and his brother were similar in handling difficult medical obstacles they endured in life, with grit and determination, for their love of life & family. May you all be blessed with peace and healing going forward. All our love and prayers.
Love,
Olga, Verna, Angel, Billie Jean, and families
I was a neighbor across the creek from Al. My mom and his mom were good friends. He came to my mom’s funeral. A really great man!
Dear Shelly, Al was a great person and will be missed by so many. We keep your family in our prayers for God’s comfort and strength through this difficult time.