Chili Newman

John Verlon “Chili” Newman, age 100, of Cherokee Hills, passed away Friday, May 13, 2022, at The Lantern at Morning Pointe in Collegedale, Tennessee.

Mr. Newman was born December 27, 1921, in Cherokee County, North Carolina, to the late Poley and Ora Pack Newman. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of Mine City Baptist Church.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara P. Newman; his parents; his son, Robert H. Newman; his brothers, Grayson Newman, Edsel Newman, Herman Newman, Hobert Newman; and sisters, Lois N. Kaylor and Mildred N. Davis.

Verlon was known by many for his deep love and respect for his country and community. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He survived 28 days of tremendous combat in the Battle of Iwo Jima. He proudly watched and was only a few feet from the iconic raising of the United States flag on the island of Iwo Jima. He was honorably discharged in December of 1945.

After serving his country, Verlon came home to Ducktown, where he served as the county judge for several years. He met his late wife, Barbara, in 1948, and they were happily married for 69 years.

For over 40 years, Verlon and Barbara owned and operated several grocery stores, including the Piggly Wiggly in Tennessee, Georgia and North Carolina. He was a successful businessman that didn’t believe in retirement.

He is survived by his son and spouse, Frank B. and Libby Newman, of Blue Ridge; daughter, Cheryl N. Luttrell, of Ducktown; one sister and brother-in-law, Lydia and Bob Kilpatrick, of Copperhill; as well as three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service and interment was held at Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery in Cherokee County, North Carolina with the Rev. Rusty Thomas officiating. Military honors were presented by the North Georgia Honor Guard.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Copperhill, TN was in charge of the arrangements.