Dr. Elton Lee Newbern, Jr., 79, of Enfield, NC died on November 13 following a battle with Covid 19. He was born in Colerain, NC, to the late Elton Lee Newbern, Sr. and Nora Webb Jones Newbern. Dr. Newbern was married to Ann Elliott Newbern. He was father to Elton Lee Newbern III (Annette) and Nan Newbern Loud (David) and stepfather to Katherine Peel McEwen (Chad). He was grandfather to Noah, Seth, Sarah Anne, and Pittman.
Dr. Newbern had two sisters, Betty Ham (Tom) and Donna Dunlow (Sidney) and a number of nieces and nephews. He leaves behind many friends and former co-workers who remember his honesty, wisdom, and superior leadership.
Dr. Newbern attended East Carolina University where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master of Arts Degree. He began his career as a math teacher and soon became principal at Bertie County Sr. High School at age 25. Newbern was then principal at Rocky Mount Senior High School. He earned a Doctorate in Education from Nova University. He was named Vice President at Vance Granville Community College and held that post until he became president at Halifax Community College in July of 1988. The Literary and Science Center at HCC bears the name of Dr. Newbern. In 2015, Dr. Newbern was inducted into the East Carolina University Education Hall of Fame.
Following his retirement in September 1998, Dr. Newbern, an avid outdoorsman, continued enriching his life through his favorite pastimes – farming, fishing, hunting, and traveling. He was a member at Trinity Episcopal Church in Scotland Neck and on the Vestry. He spent time enjoying his family – especially the grandchildren – at the farm, at the beach, and at their athletic and dance events.
A graveside service will be at Woodlawn Cemetery in Williamston, NC on Sunday, November 15 at 2:00 pm.
Memorials may be made directly to Historic Episcopal Church of the Advent, 307 West Franklin Street, Enfield, NC 27823 or online by clicking here
Letchworth-Sykes Funeral Service will be handling the arrangements for the Newbern family and online condolences may be directed to the family by visiting www.letchworthsykesfs.com.
Ann:
So sorry to hear of Dr. Newbern’s passing. You and family are in our prayers. Love you.
To the Newbern Family
Lee, I am so sorry for your loss. Know that you and your family are in my prayers during this most difficult time.
Lee,
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.
The the family of Dr. Newbern,
We are so sorry for your loss. Sending our condolences and prayers. Our heart goes out to you and hope you stay strong together during this difficult time. God bless you all.
So sorry to hear this sad news. Keeping the Newbern family close in my prayers.
Ann, so sorry for your loss, you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Lee, Annette and family. My heart hurts for you over the loss of your dad. During your time of sorrow, I pray you will find peace and comfort in the loving arms of our Father.
Hello Ann. Just heard about Elton, I am so sorry. You two had a special relationship and I know you have been through a difficult time. I never got to know Elton well but it was obvious he was a fine man and cared for you greatly. I am sorry I will not be able to attend funeral as I am staying close to home and taking all precautions possible. Lisa and Mary have been helping us a lot with Lodge and shopping for us , etc. Our hearts and thoughts will be with you and we love you Ann. I put obit in family file along with great picture of Elton. If I can do anything for you please let me know. Thanks for pictures you sent me, meant a lot to me. You take care of yourself.
Jesse and Bonnie Lawrence
We are saddened and heartbroken by Elton’s passing. God Bless and comfort all his family during this sad time.