Willis C. Newby, 98

Willis Clayton Newby, 98, a long time resident of Pinehurst, ID, passed away December 13, 2018.

Willis was born in Butler, OK to Blanche & Isom Newby on November 8, 1920. After graduating from high school, he joined the Navy and served as an airplane mechanic during World War II. Willis married Mildred Lehman of Woodward, OK on September 4, 1948 in a simple ceremony in Reno, NV. They moved to Smelterville, ID, in 1949 and he started work at the Bunker Hill Smelter. They moved to their Pinehurst home in 1952. Willis retired from Bunker Hill after 33 years. He and Mildred also operated Newby’s Upholstery from their home for 47 years. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary this past September. Due to his strong, independent nature and Mildred’s loving care, Willis lived out his 98 years at home.

He is survived by his wife, Mildred, and their children, Janice Davis of Boise, ID, Larry (Sheree) Newby of Kingston, ID, and Paula (Steve) Jaynes of Coeur d’ Alene, ID; grandchildren, Chad Newby, Cody Newby, Mallory Bonthius, and Garret Jaynes; eight great-grandchildren; four half-sisters; two half-brothers; and two cousins. He is preceded in death by two brothers.

Willis was a faithful member of the Church of Christ for 62 years. He loved time with family, gardening, fishing, and took great joy in winning games of dice and dominoes played with Mildred and the kids.

At Willis’ request, no services will be held. Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Willis’ online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.