James E Newman

James (Jim) E. Newman of Skiatook, Oklahoma went to be with Jesus on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at the age of 81. Jim was born December 6, 1941, in Washington, MO to Lyndall Newman and the late Ernest “Chuck” Newman. He graduated from Skiatook High School in 1959. Jim graduated from the University of Corpus Christi in 1963, with a degree in Social Studies, and received his Masters degree in School Administration from Northeastern State University. Jim coached and taught in Texas and Oklahoma, finally landing back in Skiatook where he was High School Principal and later Superintendent of Skiatook Public Schools. Jim was known for his commitment to the district, and for the care and recognition he provided his employees and students. The City of Skiatook honored Jim on December 6, 1993 by naming the middle school “Newman Middle School” in appreciation of his dedication and loyalty to Skiatook Public Schools. Jim retired from education in 2004, as a Regional Accreditation Officer for the State Department of Education. Jim married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ann Grisham on April 9, 1962. Together, they raised 3 daughters, Cindy, Debby and Mandy. Jim enjoyed all things sports, traveling, and, most of all, spending time with his family. Jim was a devoted “Paw” to his 10 grandchildren, and 6 great grand-girls. You could find him at softball games, pig shows, football games, baseball games, cross country and track meets, cheer competitions, dance recitals, and basketball games, wearing either Skiatook Bulldog or Collinsville Cardinal attire, and cheering on his grands. Jim’s life was centered around his favorite scripture, Matthew 7:12, “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets”. He rarely spoke a harsh or negative word, always looking to find the best in others. During his final hospital stay, he shared his profound wisdom with family, stating, “Life is too short to spend it finding fault in others.” Jim was preceded in death by his parents: father, Ernest Newman; mother, Lyndall Newman-Wohlgemuth; stepfather, Ben Wohlgemuth; and his brother, Larry Newman. Jim is survived by his wife, Mary Newman, of Skiatook; daughter and spouse, Cindy and Joe Jolley, of Skiatook; daughter, Debby Newman, of Skiatook; daughter and spouse, Mandy and Bryan Burd, of Collinsville; grandchildren: Katy and Eddie Cunningham, of Skiatook; Mike and Kayla Jolley, of Skiatook; Mallory and Harrison Moseby, of Collinsville; Blake and Maddy Burd, of Ramona; Brayden Burd and Alex Knight, of Collinsville; and great grand-girls: Gracie, Hannah, Abbie Jo, Henley, Kollyns and Gracelee; Sister-in-Law, Betty Newman of Bartlesville. He is also survived by multiple nieces, nephews and cousins he loved. “Wake up expecting a miracle” - Jim Newman In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Porta Caeli House of Tulsa.

James E Newman

December 6, 1941 - October 7, 2023