ATHOL, MA – Joseph R. Newton, 75, of Pine Street, died on Monday morning, January 12, 2026 at St. Vincent Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
Born in Athol on November 12, 1950, he was the son of Theodore and Rita J. (Seskas) Newton and grew up in Athol, graduating from Athol High School in 1968. He later attended Northeastern University in Boston, obtaining a degree in Chemical Engineering.
On October 13, 2012, Joseph married Sharon (Barton) and enjoyed over 13 years of marriage.
Joseph was a self employed wide load escort and surveyor for over 30 years, traveling all over the Northeast.
A Grand Master chess player, Joseph had set up several tournaments over the years. He was also an avid tattoo artist and pool player, playing in the APA.
Joseph was a member of the Lithuanian Club in Athol for many years as well as the National Tattoo Association for over 20 years.
Survivors include his wife, Sharon Newton of Athol; a son Craig Newton (Leann) and their son Everest of Orange; a granddaughter, Orrianne Newton of Orange; step children, Joshua Barton (Ashely) and their daughter Makala of Gill, Joseph Barton (Jillian) of Fitchburg, and Sarah Rush (Anthony) and their children Colby and Leila of Orange; a brother, Daniel Newton (Chris Flynn) of Boston; sister, Christine Wilson (Barry Meehan) of Orange; and several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Joseph was predeceased by sons, Lloyd Newton in 1989 and Eric Newton in 2023, as well as a sister, Margaret Ann “Peggy” Christiansen in 2014.
There are no calling hours.
A private graveside service will be held in South Cemetery in Orange.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
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