July 27, 2022
John T. (Tom) Newkirk, Sr. passed away peacefully on Friday, July 22, 2022, at Bailey Manor Assisted Living in Cookeville, Tennessee following an extended illness. Tom was born in Louisville, Kentucky on January 27, 1937. He graduated from Saint Xavier High School and the University of Louisville. Following graduation, he was a teacher, FBI Agent, realtor, Manager of the Nashville Office of BRI International, and worked as an investigator in corporate security for various companies.
Tom was preceeded in death by his parents, Walter Cleveland Newkirk, Sr. and Lucille Burke Newkirk; and his brother, Bill Newkirk. Survivors include Beth Newkirk of Nashville, his wife of 47 years; two sons: Tom, Jr. (Dena) Harrisburg, VA and Mike (Donna) Fort Myers, FL; six grandchildren: Jordan, Kaitlin, Wyatt, Chris, Michael and Alex; one great grandchild: Isla Claire, four nephews, several great nieces and nephews as well as extended family.
Tom never met a stranger. He will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity and last, but certainly not least, his incredible sense of humor.
The family would like to thank all personnel at Bailey Manor Assisted Living and the Upper Cumberland Hospice for the amazing care they provided to Tom during his stay.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the chapel at Love-Cantrell Funeral Home in Smithville, Tennessee on Sunday, August 14, 2022. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm followed by the service at 3:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Hospice of Tennessee, 155 E Spring St, Suite A, Cookeville, TN 38501 or Alzheimer’s Tennessee Cumberlands Office, 390 S Lowe Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501
Love – Cantrell Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.