Joseph Vass Newburn

Joseph Vass Newburn’s journey of life began on March 9, 1925, near or around the small community of Mt. Morriah, near Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He was the second child of 12 children born to Rev. J. S. and Josie Ella Knox Newburn who pastored Mt. Morriah Missionary Baptist Church for over 30 years. His parents taught him to adhere to high morals, spiritual and educational values. He attended Mt. Morriah School and loved learning. He had to miss many days of school to work and help support his parents. On December 23, 1942 at the age of 17 he enlisted into the United States Navy to embark on opportunities that weren’t commonly offered to African-Americans in the south. He was a life-long member of Mt. Morriah Missionary Baptist Church having joined under the leadership of his father. He served faithfully served as a trustee, with the brotherhood, as a member of the male chorus where he led “Keep Me Every Day” and was ordained as a deacon during the pastorate of Rev. Greg D. Marshall. His favorite bible passage was Proverbs 3:1-13. His resounding voice would echo the hymn “Tell me dear friend, where Jesus Is” during devotion. “Uncle Buut”, “Uncle Butch” admonished all to “pray up” and be strong; while being grateful for every chance to enrich his life. He attended bible study faithfully, continued to attend Sunday school and worship services regularly until his most recent decline in health and passing. His pilgrimage was modest, but full and fulfilling. He married Mildred Yarber and to this union 8 children were born. J. V. was a member of the The Most Worshipful St. Joseph Grand Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Jehovah Lee Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, Colored, of Arkansas Lodge No. 115 He worked as a logger for several years and made the best of every situation. On Saturday, January 2, 2016 he slipped the bonds of this life for a life in eternity. His independent spirit, iron will and strong character will never be duplicated, but leaves an impression on the lives of those he touched and enriched along this life’s journey. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mildred Newburn (1984); a daughter, Betty J. Newburn (1946) and six brothers, Henry L. Newburn, Albert Newburn, Cleveland Maurice Newburn (2005), Rev. Franklin Newburn (2006), Willie A. Newburn (2007) and Carl E. Newburn (2011); and two sisters, Carola Wilson (2005), and Flossie Morgan (2010). He leaves to continue and cherish his legacy, his children: Juanita Hogan (John), Helen Neal, Quincy Newburn (LaFrances), Billy Charles Newburn (Dorothy), Mammie Newburn, Velma Smith (Roy) and Lenore Newburn; 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; two brothers Rev. James S. Newburn of Arkadelphia, Rev. Douglas P. Newburn (Linda) Opelousas, LA; two sisters, Evelyn Harrison Barton (Hezy) of Okolona and Maureen Owens of Arkadelphia; a sister-in-law, Brenda Newburn of Malvern; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives, friends and his beloved Mt. Morriah Baptist Church family. Public visitation will be held on Friday, January 8, 2016 from 12 noon until 7:00 p.m. and the family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. A service of celebration will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at Greater Pleasant Hill Baptist Church where Dr. Lewis A. Shepherd, Jr., is the pastor and Rev. Vernon R. Moody, Sr., the pastor of Mt. Morriah Baptist Church will deliver the eulogy. Interment will be in Newburn Cemetery.