Willard R. "Will" Newberry

Willard "Will" Newberry, of Dallas, Pennsylvania, passed away at Tunkhannock Rehabilitation Center June 30 2026 Born in 1937 to Willard and Ella Newberry above a humble shoemaker shop on Main Street in Dallas, Willard spent his entire life contributing to the community he loved. He was a 1955 graduate of Dallas-Franklin High School.

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Willard served his country for 14 years, he continued his commitment to public service through decades of involvement with the Borough of Dallas. He served 17 years with the Dallas Fire Company and Ambulance Association, 7 years with the Dallas Borough Police Department, and 16 years on Dallas Borough Council. During the devastating Agnes Flood of 1972, Willard worked closely with emergency management officials, helping coordinate relief efforts and support for those affected throughout the community.

Willard was a dedicated member of numerous organizations throughout his life. He was a member of George M. Dallas Lodge No. 531 F.&A.M., Caldwell Consistory of Bloomsburg, and Irem Temple Shrine, where he proudly participated in the Motor Corps. He was also a devoted member of Daddow-Isaacs American Legion Post 672 in Dallas for 39 years.

In his younger years, Willard developed a lifelong love of hunting and fishing, often spending time outdoors with his beloved uncle, Glen. Those experiences fostered a deep appreciation for nature that remained with him throughout his life.

Professionally, Willard followed in his father's footsteps in the construction industry. He worked alongside his father through Newberry & Sons Construction, helping build numerous homes throughout the Wyoming Valley. Following his father's retirement, he joined Sordoni Construction, where he spent 27 years contributing to significant projects throughout the region, including the reconstruction of the F.M. Kirby Center. His craftsmanship and work ethic left a lasting mark on the Valley he called home.

Willard shared 54 years of marriage with the love of his life, Helen, until her sudden passing in 2012. Though he deeply missed her, he found new ways to embrace life and bring joy to others. He became well known for his enthusiasm for karaoke, never passing up an opportunity to sing whenever he found a microphone and an audience.

Later in life, Willard discovered another passion when he joined his son-in-law in the sport of tractor pulling. What began as a family activity quickly became a favorite pastime, and he proudly became a member of Burr Hill Pulling in Meshoppen.

Willard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen Newberry; his sisters, Janet Fritsky and Alice Williams; and his sons-in-law, Robert Belles and Joel Patterson.

He is survived by his loving children, Cheryl Belles; Kevin Newberry and his wife, Josie; Debbie and her husband, Sam; and Karen and her husband, Tom. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Mark, Lindsay, April, Rachel, and Olivia, along with numerous great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Judith Fitzgerald and Carol Kildoyle, and his brother-in-law, Peter Fritsky, as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and fellow community members whose lives he touched.

Willard will be remembered for his dedication to family, his commitment to public service, his strong work ethic, and his ability to make friends wherever he went. Whether serving his community, building homes and landmarks, singing his favorite songs, or spending time with family and friends, Willard lived a life filled with purpose, laughter, and generosity.

His legacy of service, kindness, and community spirit will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Funeral service will be held Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM from The Richard H. Disque Funeral Home, Inc., 2940 Memorial Highway, Dallas, PA 18612. Friends may call Monday from 6 to 8 PM. On line condolences may be at Disquefuneralhome.com