John L. Newman, age 94, of Economy, passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2008. He was born in Wayne County on April 5, 1913 to Harry and Effie Raper Newman and had lived in this area all of his life. He was a 1931 graduate of Hollansburg High School and had attended Earlham College and Wittenberg University. John had worked in banking and was the retired owner/operator of Newman Corporation. He was a life-long member of First Friends Meeting and was a member of several organizations including the Whitewater Valley Land Trust, the American Red Cross and Hagerstown Masonic Lodge where he was a member for over 50 years. John had many philanthropic interests including tree farming, the American Cancer Society and collecting and distributing food to numerous food pantry's and kitchens in this area. John is survived by his son - George (Pat) Newman of Economy; son-in-law - Robert Mercer of Economy; grandchildren - Denise (Terry) Fox of Economy, Yvonne (Jeff) Swim of Zachary, LA, Keith Newman of Atlanta, GA, Teresa (Dan) Griffey of Milton, Jeff (Judy) Newman of Pickerington, OH, Tim Newman of Hagerstown, Wanda (Howie) Cox of Vincent, OH; 11 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a special friend - Ruth Pfeiffer of Richmond. He was preceded in death by his first wife - Gertrude Manning Newman of Economy; his second wife - Martha Tubesing Newman of Richmond; a son - Lowell Newman; a daughter - Phyllis Newman Mercer of Economy; his parents and five siblings. A public service in celebration of John's life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday (April 12, 2008) in First Friends Meeting, 2010 Chester Blvd. Richmond. Sheldon Clark will officiate. Private burial services will be in Economy Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Fund of First Friends Meeting; or to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 689,Columbus, Indiana 47202; or the donor may plant a tree in John's memory. Riggle - Waltermann Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. www.riggle-waltermann.com