DAVID LEROY NEWELL

On January 20, 2026, David Leroy Newell affectionately known as Poppy gained his wings and went home to be with the Lord. David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Martha Newell; his father, Leroy “Buddy” Newell; his mother, Inezy Kelley Newell; his sister, Donna Sue Whisonant; his brother, Chuck Newell, and his wife Diane; and his sister Barbara Walker and her husband Bill. He is survived by his loving children, daughter Kelley Cornelius and her husband Jeff, and his son Jeffery Newell; his sister Peggy Cooper and her husband Butch; his brother-in-law Max Whisonant; and his cherished grandchildren, Raelee Staggs and her husband Joshua, Tyler White and his wife Tytiana, Candace Jones Sanchez, Morgan Newell, Graham Newell and Jenna Newell. David was also a proud great-grandfather to Maddalee Butts, Tripp Bridges, Cayden Bridges, Khloe White, and Palmer Newell, along with his many beloved nieces and nephews. David will be deeply missed by his many friends and loved ones whose lives were touched by his kindness, faith, and steady presence. David was a great man in every sense of the word. He lived a life marked by service, faith, and love. As a proud member of the United States Navy, he served his country with honor, worked hard, and carried himself with quiet strength and integrity. He was a true gentleman—kind, steady, and guided by his deep love for the Lord. He was a devoted husband and father, raising two children and building a life rooted in dedication and sacrifice. Though he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Martha “Mott” Newell, we find comfort in knowing they are now reunited—together again, setting off on their next great adventure hand in hand. To his family, he was the best Poppy anyone could ask for—a wonderful grandfather and a proud great-grandfather who loved his family deeply. His legacy lives on through each generation he leaves behind. One of the greatest honors of his granddaughter’s (RaeLee’s) life was being named by him, a bond that forever ties her to his love and story. David’s life was full, meaningful, and well lived. He taught us what it means to work hard, love deeply, walk faithfully, and live with grace. He will be missed beyond words, but his example, his faith, and his love will remain with us always. A graveside service will be held at Highland Memorial Gardens at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, located at 3115 18th Avenue, Bessemer, Alabama 35020. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring and remembering David Leroy Newell.