George W. Newman, a retired boat dealer and long-time resident of Bullard Texas, died Friday, July 16, 2021.  At the age of 80 years, George passed peacefully at his home, after a long illness, surrounded by family and friends.

George is survived by his children; Edward Newman of Houston, Virginia Horton of Tyler, and Ray Newman of Tyler; his grandchildren Jonathan Graham, Crystal Metcalf, and Branton Newman; his long-time companion, Sybil Tompkins; and two great grandchildren.

George was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi on September 15, 1940, to Mildred and Mino Ray Newman.  He was valedictorian of Jett High School's 1959 graduating class.  George had a talent for building engines and racing go-karts in his teenage years and transitioned to racing boats in his early 20s. George quickly became the premier builder of runabout V-hull racing boats in the Vicksburg area, then went on to build over fifty boats throughout his lifetime.

A devoted father, George enjoyed building and racing boats with his son, Ray, while continuing to operate his business, The Boat Center, at Lake Palestine, which he co-owned since moving to Tyler in 1977.  He spent many Sunday afternoons working alongside his daughter, Virginia, tinkering with car and boat engines.  George was also an avid amateur radio operator, a hobby he deeply enjoyed with his oldest son, Edward.  Later in life, he made many fond memories on his road trips around the United States with his long-time companion, Sybil Tompkins.  Some of his favorites included traveling to The Grand Canyon and The Smoky Mountains, driving a NASCAR at Talladega Superspeedway, touring the entire Pacific Coastal Highway, and participating in The Richard Petty Experience, where he coincidentally met the man himself.  George will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and all who knew him.

A memorial service for George is scheduled for 1:00pm on Thursday, July 22, 2021, at Boren-Conner Funeral Home in Bullard, Texas.  Pastor Andy Fauss will officiate.  Flowers and condolences may be offered at 550 South Dr. M. Roper Parkway, Bullard, Texas 75757.