Alvin Newman

Alvin Herman Newman, 89, of Danville, VA died Sunday, December 2, 2012 after a short illness. Mr. Newman was born on September 17, 1923 and was raised in Danville; he was the son of the late Nathan and Mayme Newman. Besides his parents, Mr.Newman was pre-deceased by his siblings, Sidney Newman, Kathleen Newman and Beatrice Stoner. He was a graduate of George Washington High School and Duke University. Mr. Newman served in the Army Air Forces during World War II as a B-17 navigator in the 8th Air Force in England. He received an honorable discharge as a First Lieutenant. Mr. Newman received numerous air medals. Mr. Newman married the love of his life, Joan LeBof in 1949, and spent 64 loving years together. They have 2 sons, Marc D. Newman (Patricia) of Raleigh, NC and Dr. Miles J. Newman (Cindy) of Roanoke, VA. They also have 2 grandchildren, Adam Newman (Melissa) of Denver, CO and Dr. Diane Newman (Sean) of Durham, NC, as well as 2 great-grand children, Ashlyn and Ryan Newman of Denver, CO. Mr. Newman was an enthusiastic supporter of Duke academics, working with the admissions committee for many years. He was an Iron Duke and had season football and basketball tickets for 64 years. He developed close relationships with many of the Duke football and basketball coaches, who often visited him at his home in Danville. Mr. Newman was very active in the Danville community, having served on numerous boards for the city. He was instrumental in attracting new industries to the Danville area. He was a lifelong Democrat and an active leader in the local Democratic Party. He was an early leader in the community for equal rights for all people, regardless of race. Mr. Newman was very active in the Jaycees and was Virginia State President. He will be remembered for his quick wit, contagious smile and high intelligence, as well as the love he shared with his family and friends. He was in the men's clothing business most of his career, and was the owner of The Hub Clothiers and A. Newman, Ltd. in Danville. Mr. Newman was an active member his entire life of Temple Beth Shalom, where he held various leadership roles. The family wishes to thank the staff at Piney Forest Nursing Home for their kindness during the past year. A graveside service and interment will be at the Aetz Chayim Jewish Cemetery, located in the 100 block of Westover Drive, Danville, on Monday, December 3rd at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Beth Shalom, Danville, VA or the American Heart Association. Townes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Newman family.