Newfield, John Kern's Obituary
John Kern Newfield, 82, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, passed from this life on March 17, 2026. Born on March 29, 1943, in Columbia, South Carolina to William and Marguerite Newfield, he lived a life defined by devotion to his wife, Bette and to their family. John possessed a tireless work ethic and an unmistakable sense of humor.
John attended CW Post in New York, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He was a multi-sport athlete, competing in football, wrestling, and shot-put. While attending college, John met Bette, the greatest love of his life. Together, they shared over 61 years of marriage. John’s love and devotion to family was deepened during their marriage with the arrival of two sons, John Scott and Darrin Michael. His boys and his family were his pride and joy.
After college, John tried out for the New York Giants. He even made it past the first round! Although he did not make the team, he was a diehard Giants fan for life. While in college, John started working at American Airlines and spent more than 40 years there until his retirement.
John was passionate about working with children, from dressing up as Santa Clause to visit sick children at St. Mary’s Hospital for Children, to coaching his sons and hundreds of other children in soccer. Post retirement, John earned a class “C” coaching license in soccer and served as the Broken Arrow and Green Country Soccer Club President. Through coaching, leadership, and his impeccable portrayal of Santa, he made a lasting impact on the lives of hundreds of children.
After his coaching career ended, John developed a passion for recreational flying which led him to earn his commercial pilot’s license. With Bette by his side, they spent much of their free time flying.
Later in life, John and Bette shared their love of boating, all things pertaining to lake life, golf, and travel. They were also active in their church where they continued to grow in their faith. John loved, supported, and cheered for his grandchildren during their many endeavors and adventures.
John was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ronald, and his sister Pat. He is survived by wife Bette, son Scott and wife Melanie, son Darrin, sister Marguerite (Candy) Breslin and husband Jim, sister Mickey Hayes, grandchildren: John III (Trip), Jillian, Caden, Megan and Emma. Great Grandchildren: Weston, Adonnis, and Clementine.
Visitation will be Wednesday, March 25th, 4-6pm and a celebration of life service will be Thursday, March 26th 12:30 pm at Floral Haven Broken Arrow Chapel. John will be laid to rest directly following the service at Floral Haven Cemetery.
John loved his dad jokes and was an “advisor” to all. According to THE BOOK OF JOHN: It’s important to remember “they cut them all for the same price” when getting a haircut, “they’re
dying to get into this place”, always ask because “all they can do is say no”, “you’re prettier when you smile”, “Happiness is a journey not a destination – Work like you don’t need money – Love like you’ve never been hurt – and Dance like no one is watching!”, “Save your tears for when you’ll really need them”, “everything you need is inside of you”, and when asked how you’re doing “The bad news is: we’re getting older. But the good news is: we’re getting older.”
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