Ronald Lee Newsom

Captain Ronald Lee Newsom, 92, a resident of Auburn, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, November 13, 2025.

Ron was born on May 13, 1933. He grew up in Decatur, Alabama, and attended Auburn University (formerly Alabama Polytechnic Institute), where he earned his degree in civil engineering in 1958. He went on to begin a distinguished career with the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey/NOAA, serving as commanding officer of the McArthur (a 175-foot, 995-ton vessel) and later the Researcher (a 278-foot, 2,923-ton vessel). After retiring from military service, he continued his work at The Brighton Dam in Maryland. Over the course of his life, Ron and his family lived in Hawaii, Virginia, Alaska, South Carolina, Washington State, Florida, Maryland, and Alabama.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Lee and Merle Bass Newsom. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Sylvia Smith Newsom; his children Brad Newsom (Ann), Kenneth Newsom (Carol), and Patrick Newsom; his grandchildren Allie Newsom, Erin Sprague (Chase), McKinley McKinnell (Rusty), Dakota, Addison, and Grayson Newsom. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Hudson and Logan Sprague.

He was loved by all who knew him. Ron lived a rich and fulfilling life—traveling, scouting, camping, and cherishing time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, a wonderful Dad, and a deeply loved Grandpa. He will be forever missed and forever loved.

The family will hold a private gathering to honor and celebrate his life.