Funeral Services for Donald Ray Newberry, Age 84 of Viola, Arkansas will be held on Tuesday, July 21st, 2026 at The Barker Funeral Home, Viola, Arkansas, beginning at 2:00 PM. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1:00 PM. Interment will be in The Viola Cemetery, Viola, Arkansas.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Donald Ray Newberry, 84, of Viola, Arkansas, passed away at his home in Viola.
Born on February 28, 1942, in Viola, Arkansas, Don was the son of Fred Donald Newberry and Virginia Sue (Beaver) Newberry. He spent his entire life rooted in the hills of Fulton County, building a legacy of hard work, kindness, and a love for the cowboy way of life.
On October 6, 1961, he married Sandra Sue Foster in Viola, Arkansas. Together they shared a lifetime of memories, raising a family and creating a home filled with love and laughter.
Don spent his working years as a ferry boat pilot for the State of Arkansas and retired from the Arkansas State Highway Department, where he enjoyed every minute of being a ferry pilot. He was also a farmer and rancher. His greatest passion was roping. Don believed every kid deserved the chance to be a cowboy. He would saddle up Appy, put a rope in their hand, and give them an opportunity to learn.
Even after he could no longer participate, Don loved listening to roping stories from family and friends. He often said that The Cowboy Channel was one of the greatest inventions ever because it allowed him to watch the sport he loved from the comfort of his recliner.
Don was a member of Viola Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Sue Newberry; son, Cris Newberry (Michael Mahan); daughter, Dawnesea Roper (Dennis); grandchildren, Mandy Adams (Matt) and Chance Roper (Danielle); great-grandchildren, Maylee Adams and Chism Roper; brother, Charles Wayne Newberry; sister, Barbara Foster (Gail); and many other relatives and friends.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. David Kauffman, Lynn Martin, and Tammy Tyler for their compassionate care.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
