LeeRoy Newton

LeeRoy Newton, known to some as "Lee," lived a life marked by resilience, work, and a connection to the natural world. Born at home on June 17, 1938, near Bend, Oregon, Lee was the fifth of nine children to Barney Derice and Dovie Bell Newton (Summers).

Lee’s early life was defined by the rugged landscapes of Deschutes County. He survived polio at age nine, an illness that left enduring health implications, yet it never dampened his passion for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, skills he honed in the mountains and streams of his youth. A natural operator of heavy machinery, his father once remarked that there wasn’t a piece of equipment Lee couldn’t master.

Shortly after his 20th birthday, Lee married Nellie Joann Spears in Kansas. They started their life together in Auburn, Washington, where Lee worked at the Libby cannery and they welcomed their first son, Curtis Lee. Drawn back to the pine forests, the family returned to Central Oregon. There, except for a brief period operating a service station in Kansas, Lee forged a career in the logging industry and later worked at a machine shop. Their second son, Barney Sanford, was born in 1962. The family established roots, purchasing their first home in La Pine before eventually settling in Glide, Oregon.

A new chapter began for Lee in 1973 when he left his family behind and a year later moved north to the island of Petersburg, Alaska, working in logging and construction. It was there that he met Samuella (Sammy) Mae Parker. Sammy was an astute businesswoman with a generous heart and a strong commitment to community service. She was an excellent companion and they married in 1983, expanding Lee’s family through his association with Sammy’s five children and their families.

Together, Lee and Sammy owned and operated several local establishments, including Beachboy (a popular walk-up food spot), Beachboy Trucking, The Quay Restaurant, Bear Video, Petersburg Business Center, and Waterfront Bed and Breakfast. Their final home was situated above the B&B, offering stunning views of the mountains and glaciers.

Lee’s authentically Alaskan demeanor was a memorable part of the B&B experience. Guests enjoyed his wit and perfect, made-to-order eggs served alongside the dishes Sammy had prepared before heading to work. A true host, Lee’s fish fry’s were exceptional, featuring endless crab legs, shrimp, and fresh fish served on the deck. Guests and Lee’s grandchildren alike were mesmerized and thrilled when, after filleting a fresh catch of fish on the deck, he would bang pans together and whistle. Eagles left their perches from miles around and in minutes were flying circles above. After a demonstration by Lee, guests could take turns throwing fish heads high and watch eagles snatch them mid-air in a spectacular display. Lee and Sammy operated their businesses well into their 80s, earning the respect of their community.

Beyond his business life, Lee was involved in local activities. His community involvement included volunteer work for the Petersburg Police Department. He was an active member of the local gun club, an NRA and Moose Lodge member, and an avid firearms collector. A true Alaskan, he held a commercial fishing license and regularly brought home bounties of salmon, halibut, and crab.

Lee spent the final year of his life living in Northern Utah near his son and family.

LeeRoy was preceded in death by his wife, Sammy, his parents, and his siblings. He is survived by his sons: Curtis Newton and Barney (Sheri) Newton; his grandchildren: Kristina, Kimberly, Shauntae, Gavin, and Chase; and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Sammy’s children: Richard, Paul, David, Shelley, and Daniel, along with her extended family of sixteen grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

LeeRoy’s sons extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who provided compassionate care to their father in recent years. Your efforts to sustain his health and dignity reflect the best of human kindness.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.allenmortuaries.com.