Newton Clark "Newt" Carleton

Newton (Newt) Clark Carleton, 92, of Amarillo, TX passed away July 9, 2024.  Celebration of Life services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 3rd at Journey Church, 9711 FM 2186 with Pastors Debbie and Chuck Phillips and Pastor Mike Farley officiating.  The service will also be available to attend virtually.  In honor of Newt’s love for baseball, please feel welcome to wear your favorite baseball attire or Texas Ranger colors.

Newt was born to Anna Jewett Carleton and John Carleton on October 10, 1931 in Kansas City, Missouri, shortly after the St. Louis Cardinals won the World Series against the Philadelphia A’s in the seventh game.  You might find this an odd fact to include, but one of his favorite stories to tell was how his mom waited to tell his dad that she was in labor until after the game was over.  You wouldn’t have to be around Newt for long to realize three things: his passion for baseball, he was a grand storyteller, and the love for his family.

Newt grew up in Missouri, where he had many adventures with his older brother Johnny and cousin Sonny (Cecil Rough).  If all of Newt’s stories can be believed, he loved to fish, along with his brother never lost a fight, quick to come to the defense of the underdog and was a great left-handed pitcher.  On March 17, 1951, he met his wife, Lois Dillon, on a blind date, and promptly married her six months later on October 6.  She was his first and last date. During more than 70 years of marriage  where they moved from Missouri to Texas: Newt served in the US Army during the Korean War, continued to play baseball, coached numerous baseball teams for his children, Roger Carleton and April Leming, worked 31 years and retired from Pantex, served in the Army National Guard Reserves for 19 years, was active in his church, Community of Christ, and volunteered in his community through the VA,  RSVP (retired senior volunteer program), AISD HOSTS (Helping One Student to Succeed) program, EASI (well water program), Kids Inc and YMCA.

As a husband, Newt was devoted to Lois, loving to surprise her with flowers and gifts.  He was always good to remember her birthday, the anniversary of their first date and wedding anniversary.  Newt provided for his family, living a life of example, never hesitating to say “I love you”.  As a father and grandfather, he was present.  He was the coach, bug and rodent killer, fixer of all things, and our biggest fan.

Newt was always willing to lend a helping hand, rarely without a smile, word of encouragement and positive outlook for what the day held.   He was a faithful servant and loved his Lord.

Newt is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, John J. Carleton, and his wife, Lois Dillon Carleton.

Newt is survived by his daughter and son-in law, April and Robert Leming, his son, Roger Carleton, Daughter in law, Dolores Fernandez, and his two grandchildren, Erika Riojas and Cameron Carleton, and his three great grandsons, Jonah, Evan, and Zane Wyatt.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Abundantly Blessed Care Home, Professional Case Management Services and BSA Hospice who cared for and loved Newt during this past year and beyond.    To the staff at Abundantly Blessed - Lisa Knaff, Jennifer Drone, Mercedes Martinez, Dashiwan Newsome, and Tiffany Bunch -  you have all been a wonderful gift and presence in our family’s life.  Thank you for loving Newt and sharing your gift of caring for others- you have more impact than can ever be measured.  To BSA Hospice and Janna Calvin– thank you for caring for Newt, being such a support for families, always answering calls, and being so patient.   Allison Glover – thank you for all you have done throughout the many years of providing care for Newt.   You have always been there, willing to answer texts, adjust your schedule and provide support.  You are a treasure.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to The Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center or BSA Hospice.