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Fort Smith, AK--Kelly Newton, a longtime Fort Smith businessman and former operator of Newton’s Jewelers, died at 74 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Newton’s Jewelers, established in 1914 by his grandfather George H. Newton Sr., became a respected institution in downtown Fort Smith. According to Talk Business & Politics, Newton ran the store until its closure in April 2023.

[Image via Kelly Newton/LinkedIn]

Newton, a certified gemologist appraiser, received the prestigious Robert M. Shipley Award from the American Gem Society in 2019 for his contributions to the jewelry industry and the community. He was also an active supporter of local initiatives. Fort Smith Mayor George McGill described Newton as a “humble champion” for the city, and the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce praised his dedication to community development, Talk Business & Politics noted.

Born in Fort Smith in 1950, Newton graduated from Southside High School and earned a business degree from Southern Methodist University in 1972. After college, he joined the family business, which had been passed down through three generations.

Newton is survived by his wife of 50 years, Marilyn, three daughters, and four grandchildren. A memorial service was held at First United Methodist Church on January 3. The family has requested donations in his memory to First United Methodist Church, the Fort Smith Chorale, or the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House.

Learn more on by Talk Business & Politics.