William Danny Newman

William Danny Newman, 73, of Destin, FL passed on Sunday, May 9, 2021. He was known as “Danny” to his friends and “Big Daddy” to his Destin family.

Danny was born on December 4th, 1947 in Fayette, Alabama, to Jack and Dorothy Newman. At the age of 23, Danny enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, where he excelled in grenade launching and sharpshooting.

In his thirties Danny relocated to Destin, Florida and started his own business as a general contractor, building condos and houses. Later in life he took a job at Edgewater Condominiums as the head of the maintenance department. He could fix anything and was a jack of all trades, which he happily demonstrated to very grateful condo owners over the course of 20+ years.

“Big Daddy” was known for his boisterous and infectious laugh, and enjoyed telling jokes to his friends, and entertaining his grandchildren with an over-emphasized southern drawl. He was very proud of his affiliation with the Elks Lodge #2688 in Destin, Florida, and was honored to serve as the Exalted Ruler (President). It was at the Elks lodge that he acquired and spent time with his closest of friends. Known as an avid Alabama Crimson Tide fan, he didn’t miss a game if he could help it and was a big fan of Bear Bryant. Danny was also a member of the Destin Methodist Church.

Big Daddy left us too soon and will be deeply missed.

Danny was preceded in death by his daughter Dayna and his parents Dorothy and Jack.

He is survived by his wife Pamela Newman, his children and their families, Paige, Shayne, Kim, Justin, Tammy, and Brad. He also leaves behind his many grandchildren and great grandchildren including his late daughter Dayna’s daughter Molly.

A celebration of life is being held on Sunday, June 6th in the ballroom at the American Legion in Destin, Post 296 (311 Main St, Destin, FL 32541). The celebration will be held from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Parking is located in the back of the building.

A private, honorary military internment memorial service will be held at a later date. He will then be laid to rest at Barrancas National Cemetery, 1 Cemetery Rd, Pensacola, FL 32508. Please contact Paige if you would like to attend.