John Raymond "Johnny Ray" Newman, age 85, of Morehead Road, Wallingford, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Community Hospice in Ashland.

Born on January 23, 1940, in Fleming County, Johnny Ray was a son of the late Riley Mitchell Newman and Georgia Nell Hinton Newman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Kincaid Browning Newman on March 25, 2025; one son, John R. Newman, Jr. on December 12, 1980; two brothers, Maurice Newman and Frank Newman; and six sisters, Catherine Burke, Geneva Fannin, Marie Smith, Carrie Staggs, and Georgia Gillespie.

He is survived by one beloved daughter and son-in-law, Carol Ann and Joshua Adams of Ashland; two special grandchildren, Michaela Polley and Kaden Adams; several nieces and nephews; as well as extended family, neighbors, and dear friends.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Johnny Ray and Jean owned and operated Newman's Grocery for several years, becoming a familiar part of the community. He loved life on his farm—nothing made him happier than being outdoors.

Johnny Ray was one of a kind. He could turn anything into a joke and had a gift for making people laugh. He never met a stranger and could talk to anyone about anything. He had a deep appreciation for nature—he loved watching deer roam and beavers build their dams. Come fall, he took pride in his wood lot, cutting and selling firewood to help keep others warm through the winter. He was also an avid UK basketball fan.  Johnny Ray will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals with Pastor Jack Hinton officiating. Immediately following the service, Morehead American Legion Post 126 will present full military honors at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Newman Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Josh Adams, Kaden Adams, Mike Polley, Shawn Royse, Rick Snow, Donnie Logan, Mike Royse, and Lane Caswell.   Honorary pallbearer: Jack Hemmerich

Visitation is from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.

Sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com