Francis John Newnam, beloved husband, father, and wry observer of the world, passed away in Severna Park, Maryland on March 23, 2025, after a brief illness at the age of 92.

Born on September 27, 1932, in Philadelphia to Joseph and Anna Newnam, Fran was the youngest of ten - a garrulous Irish clan who were their own best friends. In Philly, Fran began his lifelong interest in news and cinema by pinching nickels and spending hours at the local movie house. He attended Toms River High School in New Jersey, where he distinguished himself in track and field and on the basketball court. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Air Force where, in the first of many lucky breaks he enjoyed throughout his life, he was stationed in Bermuda for the duration of his Korean War service.

Afterwards, Fran used the GI bill to earn a BA and then work on his Masters in History and Math before embarking on a varied career that included teaching high school, lecturing at VMI, serving in the Air National Guard and working as a vocational rehabilitation counselor. He loved to travel, read the news, do the NYT crossword, watch his Phillies, and sip dry martinis. Fran was known for his charm, his near-perfect memory, and a mathematical prowess he drew upon mercilessly while playing cards.

Fran is survived by his wife of 60 years, Neda Newnam; his children, Lisa Helle, Lauren Crum, and Brendan Newnam; his "adopted" son, Marinko Stokic; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11:00 am in Barranco Severna Park Funeral Home & Cremation Care, P.A., 495 Ritchie Hwy, Severna Park, MD 21146

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the PBS Foundation or NPR.org to honor Frank's passion for news and quality media programming.