David H. “Pup” Newsom

David H. “Pup” Newsom

David Harold Newsom, 70, died March 2, 2026 in Joplin, Mo. He was born to Ethel Lorene Newsom and Vernon W. Newsom on July 21, 1955 in Clinton, Mo., and lived most of his life in Higginsville, MO.

David graduated Higginsville High School, attended Wentworth Military Academy, and obtained an Associate’s degree from Electronics Institute of KC. His career was spent working in various mechanical capacities, and retiring from the facilities team at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg, MO.

He loved working with anything mechanical and figuring out how things work and problem-solving solutions to fix them. During his early years, he exhibited a passion for working with cars and revving up the engines. His later years found him working on tractors and farm machinery.

David had an artistic side that enjoyed dabbling in woodworking and creating artful pieces, but his creativity flourished when it came to music. From his teen years forward he was involved in playing drums for local rock bands like “Step Child” and ”Frydayze” throughout the western and central Missouri area. His bandmates were some of his lifelong friends, and dubbed him with the nickname of “Pup”.

David’s greatest joy in life and point of pride was raising his two sons, Steve and Rob, and sharing with them his love of hunting, fishing, and camping – anything out of doors. He had recently moved from Higginsville to Joplin to be able to share more time with his sons.

Survivors include his sons, Steven Newsom of Joplin, Rob (Bethany) Newsom of Joplin and granddaughters, Corinne and Ember, and a sister Anita Newsom of Kansas City.

A celebration of life reception will be held April 4, 2026 from 2 – 5PM, at La Belle Vineyards and Winery, 11644 Flournoy School Rd, Wellington, MO 64097. Interment in Higginsville City Cemetery.

Services are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park in Joplin, MO