James Edward Newell

     James Edward Newell, age 82, of Middleton, MI, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Hazel I. Findlay Country Manor, St. Johns, MI.
     Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service for James will be held at a later date.
     James was born in Mt. Pleasant, MI on November 28, 1943, the son of Clifford Newell and Minnie (Grace) Newell. He graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School with the class of 1961.
     James was a master automotive technician and business owner in the Mt. Pleasant area for many years. He was one of the many backbones in his community, and would always lend a hand wherever he could no matter who you were. In his later years, James became a fleet manager for Perfection Bakeries in the Lansing area until his retirement.
     On February 26, 1972, James married the love of his life, Faye Ellen (Miller) Newell in her mother's dining room. For over 54 years, they built a life full of love and happiness; raising 7 children, fishing, and running their automotive shops together.
     In his early years, James had a need for speed. He dirt raced at the Mt. Pleasant Speedway for many years before settling into fixing cars rather than racing them.
     On extended weekends, James and Faye would wrangle the kids together for camping trips at the Reedsburg Dam in the Houghton Lake area. It is a family tradition that both children and grandchildren carry on to this day.
     To those that knew him well, James was a very humble and compassionate individual. He always went out of his way to help others in need, and never expected anything in return.
     He is survived by his loving wife Faye Newell; his children: Cherie K. (Larry) Filmore, James E. (Pam) Newell, Christine L. (Ron) Neyer, Steven M. Newell, Peter J. (Amanda) Newell, and Samuel D. Newell; 16 grandchildren; his brothers: Bill (Linda) Newell, Charles (Dawn) Newell, David (Karen) Newell, and Robert (Ray) Newell; sister-in-law Vickey Newell, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; son William R. Newell; and brothers: Clifford (Diane) Newell, and Ted Newell.
     Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.