James Roy Newsom passed away on July 10, 2026 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis Missouri surround by family. Born on November 2, 1951 to Leroy and Alleen Newsom. Roy came into this world in a small doctor's clinic in Lafe, Arkansas. He attended and graduated from Marmaduke High School, then later graduated college at ASU. He was also a member of the Union Central Church of Christ.

Roy was a lifelong member of the Marmaduke community. He was a retired volunteer firefighter, and he also served several years on the Marmaduke city council. Roy had several jobs over the years such as teaching, tax preparer, and factory worker. The majority of Roy’s life he was a farmer which he enjoyed.

Roy was a man of little words, but what he loved the most was his family, his wife Arlene, his kids Justin and Leah, and his grandson Carter. He will be remembered for his honesty, loyalty, and above all else integrity.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Alleen Newsom; brother, Earl Puckett; brothers-in-law, James Holt and Bob Webb.

Roy is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Arlene Newsom; son, Justin Newsom (Cathie) of Marmaduke; daughter, Leah Henson (Derek) of Marmaduke; grandson, Carter Henson; and sisters, Patty Holt, Linda Bartlett (David), and Glenda Webb.

The family will receive friends Wednesday July 15, at Phillips Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. With the service following at 1:00 p.m. Kirk Brinkley and Ronnie Banning will be officiating and the burial will follow at Harvey’s Chapel Cemetery.

Jimmy Kidd, Jagger Lambin, Jr Johnson, Dustin Estes, Andrew Murdie, Shane Martin will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers the family request that you make a donation to the following:

Children's Home, Inc.  5515 Walcott Rd, Paragould, AR 72450

Ag for Autism   PO Box 16703, Jonesboro, AR 72403

Marmaduke Fire Dept.   307 W Mill St., Marmaduke, AR 72443