Janet Lee Newberry

Janet “Jan” Lee Newberry passed away on March 2, 2026, in Bedford, Texas. She was born on November 28, 1950, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Ruth (O’Bryan) and Lee Hunt. 

As the daughter of a minister, Jan was raised in a home grounded in faith, love, and service—values that would shape the beautiful life she lived.

Jan grew up in Chattanooga and moved to Texas in 1968. She married the love of her life, Larry Newberry, on August 7, 1971, in Hurst, Texas. Their marriage was a testament to devotion, harmony, and shared joy—especially in their love of music, where they often sang duets together.

In 1972, Jan graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music education from Howard Payne University. Music was not just her profession but her lifelong passion. Gifted with a beautiful voice, she dedicated herself to nurturing a love for music in others. She was a proud member of the Heritage Singers and the Acapella Choir, at Howard Payne University, and she carried that love of choral music throughout her life.

After graduating from Howard Payne, Jan began serving along side her husband, Larry, in Music Ministry in churches all over Texas for around 50 years. She coordinated and directed children’s choirs and music pageants in the churches where Larry served as Minister of Music.

For over 30 years, Jan devoted her career to public school elementary music education as a classroom teacher. She poured her heart into her students, inspiring generations of children through song and learning.

After retirement, Jan faithfully served as a member of Travis Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. There, she sang in the Sanctuary Choir and the PraiSingers Choir and served on staff as Music Ministry Assistant.

Jan loved traveling, singing, arts and crafts, and above all, her family. She adored her family deeply and took great pride in her son, Chris. She cherished her grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them.

Her family finds peace and comfort in knowing that Jan is now singing in the Heavenly Choir, her voice lifted in perfect pitch. Her legacy of faith, music, love, and dedication will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Larry Newberry; son, Chris Newberry; her beautiful grandchildren, Grant Newberry, Alice Newberry, and Chase Newberry; brother, David (Kathi) Hunt; sister, Carolyn (Pat) Webb; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents.

The family will receive friends from 10am to 11am on Friday, March 20, 2026, at the church. The celebration of life will be held at 11 am, Friday, March 20, 2026, at Travis Avenue Baptist Church, 800 West Berry Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76110. Pastor Bobby Bridges is officiating.