Don Newell

Don Newell, 84, of Newbern, Tennessee, died on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Okeena Health and Rehabilitation in Dyersburg, Tennessee.

Born Friday, March 27, 1942, in Dyersburg, Tennessee, he was the son of the late L. V. Newell and the late Virginia Leggett Newell.

Mr.  Newell devoted nearly his entire life to serving and protecting the people of Dyer County through a long and distinguished career in law enforcement. He faithfully served with both the Dyersburg Police Department and the Dyer County Sheriff’s Department, where he earned the respect and admiration of his fellow officers, colleagues, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout the years. Through his dedication, steady leadership, and commitment to his community, he formed many lifelong friendships.  At the time of his retirement, he served as Chief Investigator for the Dyersburg Police Department, a role that reflected both his experience and the trust placed in him throughout his career.

Beyond his years of service, Don found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially the time he spent with his family. He loved fishing, and some of his most treasured moments were spent on Reelfoot Lake with his grandsons, making memories that will be cherished for years to come. He also enjoyed woodworking and took great pride in the craftsmanship of his work, creating with his hands the same care and patience that he gave to all aspects of his life.

Graveside services for Mr. Newell will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Fairview Cemetery in Dyersburg, Tennessee. Officiating this service will be Chaplain Jim Ennis. Visitation for Mr. Newell will be held on Wednesday from 11:00 AM until 12:30 PM at Johnson-Williams Funeral Home.

He leaves to cherish his memory, one daughter, Tammy Lanier (Jimmy) of Newbern, Tennessee; son by choice, T. J. VanDyke (Nikki)one brother, Larry Newell of Dyersburg, Tennessee; he was Papaw to his three grandchildren, John Lanier (Leslie), Jeff Lanier, Eric Lanier (Kristen) and nine great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Carolyn Pitts.

Honoring Mr. Newell as pallbearers will be John Lanier, Jeff Lanier, Eric Lanier, T. J. VanDyke, Monty Essary and Chris Hamm.

Online condolences may be made to the family at johnsonwilliamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Don Newell.

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