Lyle Newman

Lyle Keith Newman, 81, of Oakland, MD, passed away at his home on January 21, 2026. Born in Sardis, WV, he was the son of the late James Okey and Hazel Edna (Howell) Newman.

Lyle Newman was a legend: a hardworking coal miner, master of countless trades, devoted family man, and unwavering man of faith. He graduated from Victory High School and attended a Barber College in Wheeling, but his real education began at age 14, working alongside his dad in the West Virginia coal mines. That gritty start fueled a lifelong passion-he proudly called himself a WV coal miner and became certified in an astonishing 46 trades, always eager to learn something new, right up to his final days. He worked as a mechanic, welder, and miner, including time at Mettiki Coal, where he bossed the C Mine Animals, embracing every challenge with determination and skill. He was even a constable in Clarksburg. As an entrepreneur, Lyle built businesses with heart. He owned Newman and Son's and, most proudly, founded Saffiticker's Ice Cream Shop in 1994 with his beloved wife Carol. What began as a family dream in the Mountain State grew into a dear spot in Oakland, Maryland, famous for its top-quality soft serve, hand-dipped Hershey's treats, and simple joys like perfect chili dogs. For over 30 years, Saffiticker's has brought smiles to generations, a sweet, enduring testament to Lyle's ingenuity and love for his family and community. He flew airplanes, loved taking photos, and eating good food. Lyle was a born-again Christian. For 50 years, he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit's presence in his life. In his final days, he spoke with radiant joy about going home to Jesus. He even wanted to celebrate that homecoming with a party, a beautiful reflection of his deep faith and positive spirit. Lyle lived fully, loved deeply, and never stopped giving or growing. His legacy lives on in the mines he worked, the businesses he built, the ice cream that still delights, and especially in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone he touched.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Carol (Sharpless) Newman; children, Tim Friend, Terry Friend and wife Maria, Ben Newman and wife Amy, and Rebekah Newman and partner Jeremy Emerick; grandchildren, Destany Friend, Trenton Friend, Raven Friend, Victoria Friend, Kiara Friend, Allie Newman, and Gabriel Newman; great grandchild, Malaya Friend; a sister, Shila Childers; and nieces and nephews, Tamrah Newman, Rachelle Mason, Samantha Aydt, Lowell Childers, Kenny Childers, and Dianna Ridder.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Tammy Friend; a daughter-in-law, Shelby Friend; a brother, Jerry Newman; a brother-in-law, Edison Childers; and a niece, Onika Kerber.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 3 to 7 PM, at the Pleasant View Baptist Church. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 11 AM in the church with Pastor Wally Weeks officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery.

The Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Homes, P.A. - Oakland Chapel is honored to be serving the Newman family.