James "Jim" Newberry Service Details - Oak Harbor, Washington | Wallin-Stucky Funeral Home

Bom-Wrapper

About An Amazing Life|Help

James "Jim" Palmer
Newberry

December 14, 1938 – October 20, 2018

Share this tribute
James
Memorial Candles Lit for James "Jim" | SEE ALL
"We are honored to provide this Book of Memories to the family."
— Wallin-Stucky Funeral Home

Obituary for James "Jim" Palmer Newberry

Print
James “Jim” Palmer Newberry: December 14, 1938 – October 20, 2018

James “Jim” Palmer Newberry passed away peacefully on 20 October 2018 at the age of 79 from the effects of a lengthy illness. He was born in Salt Lake City, UT on 14 December 1938 to Horace E. Newberry and Emily Marie Willard.

Jim spent the majority of his childhood in Bellingham, WA. He attended and graduated from Bellingham HS in 1956 and Western Washington University in 1962 with Bachelor of Arts in Education.

While Jim was a senior in high school, he met a classmate Dorothy “Dot” Sybrant, and after four years they were married in 1960. With an eternal bond, they were still best of friends 58½ years later. Their children include Gregory James, Krista Jene, Bruce Alan, and Karl Howard.

In 1962, Jim accepted a teaching position in Oak Harbor, WA. Over his 36 years of teaching, he taught 4th grade, 6th grade in elementary and middle schools, math, PE, and more. He enjoyed his time at OHE, CVE, OHMS, and NWNS. He was also instrumental in establishing the outdoor education program that featured week-long classes held at the Camp Moran Environmental Learning Center on Orcas Island. Over two decades of students and parent leaders alike remember with fondness orienteering, fishing, shelter building, plant studies, adventures on the lake, campfires, and Jim’s lively spirit. As an avid skier, he also helped coordinate the Oak Harbor School District Ski School program.

Over the years, Jim had several loves besides his family. He was a devoted fisherman, and he could often be found crabbing, gardening, and hiking. He also enjoyed house building, woodworking, and pottery. And, attending grand children’s activities and sports brought him joy. He and Dot treasured traveling and exploring, particularly the Smithsonian Museums, Alaska, and family camping adventures.

Jim was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, holding various leadership and teaching positions, including 14 years as a high school seminary teacher.

He is survived by his wife Dot, daughter Krista, and sons Greg (Julie), Bruce, Karl (Debbie), brother Mark A. (Alice), granddaughters Chelsea Jene, Alesha Raquel, Madison Nicole, and grandsons Kellan James, Tyler Palmer, and Nicholas Edward. He was proceeded in death by grandson Paden Clair.

The family invites you to join them in a celebration of Jim’s life at 3 p.m. Friday, on Oct. 26th, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 201 NE O'Leary St, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Arrangements were entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home. To leave condolences or share memories, please visit the funeral home website at www.wallinfuneralhome.com. Remembrances can be made to Oak Harbor Education Foundation at P.O. Box 1801, Oak Harbor, WA 98277.


To send flowers to the family of James "Jim" Palmer Newberry, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Service Information

When
Friday, October 26th, 2018 3:00pm
Location
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Address
201 NE OLeary St
Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Affiliations


  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

  • Oak Harbor Public Schools
Share by: