The unforgettable moment in time was July 31, 1959. It was then that twins Anthony and Aubrey made their grand entrance into the world. They were the beloved sons of Rev. J. S. Newburn and Betty Browning Newburn. Loved played a key role in the development and shaping of their lives.
Anthony was an active and lively little boy who accepted Christ at a tender age. He was a member of Mt. Morriah Baptist Church where he served with the Brotherhood.
Aubrey and Anthony became a part of the Group Living family and Group Living would never be the same. Anthony was a willing worker and made friends easily. He enjoyed playing softball, listening to Country music, wrestling and women’s basketball. Anthony was an active participant with the Special Olympics and received several awards and medals.
Anthony alike his brother Aubrey, had impeccable taste when it came to their attire. His hugs were the tightest and his handshakes were reaffirming. He was passionate about enrichment activities and church.
On Thursday, February 22, 2018, 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 father, Rev. J. S. Newburn who made his transition on January 5, 2017.
His presence will be greatly missed by his beloved mother, Betty Newburn; his twin brother, Aubrey of Arkadelphia; sisters, Deborah (Jackie) Cotledge of Arkadelphia and Rochell (EJ Outley, Jr.) Piggee of Arkadelphia; two nieces, Porchia Cotledge of Arkadelphia and Krissen (Cody Russell) Piggee of Arkadelphia and a handsome great-nephew, Jase A. Russell. He also leaves aunts, Gertie Browning of Detroit, MI, Vera Walker of Chicago, IL, Beatrice Martin of Chicago, IL, Dorothy (bobby) Lister of Arkadelphia, AR, Evelyn Harrison-Barton of Arkadelphia, Maureen Owens of Arkadelphia and Brenda Newburn of Malvern; an uncle, Rev. Douglas P. Newburn (Linda) Opelousas, LA.
He also leaves a host of cousins, numerous friends; his special friends Hulon Allen, Margaret Purifoy Goldsmith, Savada Harrison and Martha Harris all of Arkadelphia; his Group Living family, the Mt. Morriah Baptist Church family and the Greater St. Luke Baptist Church family.
Public visitation will be Monday, February 26, 2018 from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at Greater Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Vernon Moody officiating and Rev. J. L. Newburn, eulogist. Interment will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.