Debra Young Newman

Debra Young Newman, age 71, of Arkadelphia passed away Friday, October 4, 2024 peacefully at her home. She was born October 28, 1952 in Arkadelphia, Arkansas to the late John Albert and Emma Jean (Hollon) Hughes. Debra was married to her best friend from college for forty-six years, Gary Newman. Debra enjoyed travelling, especially going to the beach. She also loved spending time with her family and her pets. Debra spent much time sewing, doing other crafts, and gardening. She was a public school teacher in the Hot Springs area and a Sunday School teacher for many years. Debra was a long-time member of Second Baptist Church in Arkadelphia. In her retirement years, Debra enjoyed babysitting and spending time with her children. Debra was preceded in death by her parents.

 Survivors include her husband, Gary Newman of Arkadelphia; children, Hayden Newman of Little Rock, Heather Luchin (Keith) of Bryant, and Aaron Newman (Mandy) of Arkadelphia; grandchildren, Layla Luchin of Bryant, Kailyn Rook-Sims, Cooper Stephenson, and Case Stephenson, all of Arkadelphia; one great-grandchild, Jayleigh Rook-Scott of Arkadelphia; and brother, Robby Young (Teresa) of Benton. 

 Visitation will be 5:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel. Funeral services are 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 10, 2024 at Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel with Brother Stan Parris officiating. Burial will follow at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Arkadelphia. Pallbearers are Cooper Stephenson, Case Stephenson, Keith Luchin, Aaron Newman, and Chad Cox. Arrangements are by Smith Family Funeral Home-Arkadelphia/Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923, www.smithfamilycares.com.