Phillip Newman
Phillip Newman, 85, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in 1941 in Zanesville, Ohio, Phillip was the son of Sarah Margaret Newman and Delbert Franklin Newman, Sr. A lifelong resident of Zanesville, he dedicated his life to serving his community, strengthening civic organizations, mentoring others, and caring for his family.
After graduating from Zanesville High School, Phillip began his career with Line Material Company. He later married the love of his life, Beverly Brown. He went on to serve as a police officer with the Zanesville Police Department before continuing his career with the Ohio Youth Commission and later as manager of Harts Stores. Phil eventually joined the Ohio Department of Transportation, where he advanced to the position of County Manager. Following a distinguished career in public service, he retired in 2006.
A gifted athlete and lifelong baseball enthusiast, Phil played semi-professional baseball with the Community Center, the Zanesville Pioneers, the Indianapolis Clowns, and numerous local softball teams. His love of the game, sportsmanship, and years of dedication earned him induction into the Muskingum County Old-Timers Baseball Hall of Fame.
Phil devoted countless hours to improving the Zanesville community. He was recognized by the Zanesville Civic League for acquiring properties and leading the fundraising efforts that made possible the construction of the new Zanesville Community Center. His dedication to serving others also earned him an award from the United States Postmaster for outstanding community service.
His commitment to public service extended well beyond his professional career. Phillip served on the Zanesville City Board of Education and was a past president of both the Zanesville Esquires and the Zanesville Civic League. He also served on the Executive Board of the Muskingum County Chapter of the NAACP and was an active supporter of numerous civic and youth programs throughout Muskingum County.
Above all, Phillip was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He loved spending time with his family, cheering on his children and grandchildren, sharing stories from his years in baseball and public service, and lending a helping hand whenever someone was in need. His kindness, leadership, generosity, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Phillip is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly Newman; his children, Debbie Newman, Beverly Kay Thomas, Karl Newman (Melanie), and Jennifer Newman (Robert Davis); his grandchildren, Wesley Newman, Ashlee Thomas, Tasia Dickinson, Tyler Dickinson, William Newman, Kai Newman, and Tate Newman; several great-grandchildren; his brother, Paul Newman; special family friend, Walter Atkins; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends, and members of the community he faithfully served.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sarah Margaret Newman and Delbert Franklin Newman, Sr.; his beloved daughter, Cheryl Newman; his brothers, Delbert Newman, Jr., Robert Newman, and Ivan Newman; and his sister, Dorothy Wright.
Family and friends will be received on Friday July 31, 2026, from 10 am to 12 pm at Greater Apostolic Church Christ. Funeral services celebrating Phillip’s life will start at 12 pm with Elder Brown and Bishop Gaiters officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Zanesville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Zanesville Civic League.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Phillip’s legacy of integrity, service, leadership, faith, and unwavering devotion to his family and community will continue to inspire generations to come. His impact on the City of Zanesville and the countless lives he touched will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
