Debra Joyce Newport

Debra Joyce Newport, 69, of Speedwell, Tennessee was born August 10,1953 and passed away peacefully at her home, Sunday, March 19, 2023.

Joyce was a loving and kind soul that thoroughly wanted to make people feel loved and welcome. Her amazing personality and infectious laugh will be missed greatly. She was known, among her several nieces and nephews, for her captivating storytelling, playful behavior, and her unconditional love. Joyce was always looking for a way to help the people around her, always putting someone's needs before her own. She loved her family greatly and was always looking forward to the next family gathering.

Joyce graduated from Powell Valley High School in 1971. She then met the love of her life, Eddie Newport, while working the candy counter at Powell's Five and Dime store. She then found work at Imperial Reading in LaFollette, TN until its closing. After that, she worked as a bookkeeper at several locations, until she was faced with illness. Her hobbies included sewing, spending time with her grandbabies, and church activities.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Eddie Newport; her parents, Ted and Odie Edwards; brother, Larry “Jack” Edwards; sisters, Barbra “Bobbie” Edwards, Brenda “Butch” Evans, and Betty Gregg.

She is survived by daughter, Amanda and David Walker of Speedwell, TN; son Teddy and Brittney Newport of Knoxville, TN; four grandchildren, Cayden Walker and Colin Davis, Mahala Walker, Jax Newport, and Tatum Newport; one great grandchild, Ella Davis; sister, Pam and Johnny Perkins of Speedwell, TN; brothers, Lonnie “Bull” Edwards of Portsmouth, VA, Rev. Carl “Newt” and Gloria Edwards of LaFollette, TN; Dan and Vanda Edwards of Barboursville, VA;  brother in-law, Jessy Gregg of Speedwell, TN; and a host of nieces, nephews,and friends.

The family will receive friends Thursday, March 23, 2023 from 6-8 pm with funeral services to follow, at Haynes Flat Baptist Church, with Rev. Darrell Walker and Rev. J.D. Estep officiating. Music will be provided by Donnie Adkins. Graveside services will be conducted 11 am Friday, March 24, 2023 at the Edwards Family Cemetery, Jones Ridges Road Speedwell, TN.

The Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Debra Joyce Newport.