Condolences: Harold T. Newton

Harold Truman Newton, of Easley, SC, passed away Tuesday, June 27, 2013 at the Richard Campbell Veterans Nursing Home, Anderson, SC. He was born on March 14, 1921 in Anderson County to the late Truman O. Newton and Jelia Mae Boggs Newton. He was predeceased by his sister, Ruth Newton Hicks of Easley. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Patricia Reardon Newton.

He has five sons and nine grandchildren: Gary S. Newton and grandson, Andrew, of Pelzer, SC; Eric A. Newton and wife, Ann, and grandchildren, Allison, Regina, Megan, Kelley and Paul, of Washington, NJ; Miles A. Newton and wife, Laura, and grandchildren Mark, Julie, and Matthew of Hanceville, AL; Harold E. Newton of Pelzer, SC, Alex J. Newton of Columbia, South America.

Harold graduated from Easley High School in 1938. He joined the Army Air Corp in 1942 serving as a pilot in the Southwest Pacific. Following service in WWII, he flew as an Air Force pilot at Donaldson Air Force Base in Greenville until it closed. He then flew with the Georgia Air National Guard, Savannah, GA, until his retirement in 1971. He was a corporate pilot for Ballenger Paving Company from the mid-1950s thru the early 1960s.

Harold had a long career in the building business. His businesses included the Newton-McConnell Lumber Co. and Thermal Insulation and Construction, Inc. He designed and built numerous homes and offices in the Easley and Greenville area, including the only Frank Lloyd Wright house located in upper South Carolina. He served as President of the Home Builders Association of Greenville and the North Greenville Rotary. He retired in 1995 from the building business.

Harold had many interests in life. He played guitar with "The Rhythmaires" for many years. He loved to play competitive table tennis and checkers and was an expert bridge player. He treasured his time with special friends, particularly the breakfast groups. A special thank you to Harold's friends who remained loyal to him to the end.

Harold had a very generous heart. He chose to participate in the Gift of Body Program at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine.

Services will be held on Sunday, July 7, at 5 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Greenville where Harold has been a member for over 50 years. The Reverend Susan Crowell will officiate. A reception will follow in the All Purpose Room. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

Source:  Greenville News