It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James Brent Newby on February 18, 2026. He was born on July 7, 1961, and in death, has left a void in our hearts. His life was a testament to kindness and his devotion to family, friends, and his community was admirable.

Brent is survived by his mother, Barbara Baughman, his stepmother, Scottie Newby, his sisters, Leesa (Brad) Schwarz and Karen (Greg) McCloud, his loving daughter, Celia (Melissa) Taylor, his nieces, Kailey (Clay) Sadler and Amanda (Kyle) Bishof his nephews, Zachary (Audrey) Landers, Andrew (Meredith) McCloud, and Matthew (Kayla) McCloud , six stepbrothers (Heath and Keith Dean and Pete, Tom, Bob, and Bill Baughman, and fourteen great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, the late James Marshall Newby and stepfather, the late Dr. John Samuel Baughman. Brent’s spirit will continue to illuminate the lives of those who were fortunate to know him.

Brent worked as the assistant manager at Stratton Lumber in Nicholasville, Kentucky for the past seventeen years. He loved his work and thought of his co-workers as family, and deeply appreciate the love and support they provided throughout his illness. A passionate civic participant, he selflessly volunteered his time in his community. He served as a member of the Harrodsburg Tourism Board and was an eight-year board member of the Herrington Lake Conservation League, serving the past two years as President. Often called the mayor of Chimney Rock, he served as the President of the Chimney Rock Neighborhood Association for the past three years, showcasing his immense commitment to making the lives of others better. When Brent's father was diagnosed with cancer, he responded by organizing the annual “Pancakes with a Purpose” event at Herrington Lake at Sunset Marina to raise funds for the Markey Cancer Center in Lexington, Kentucky. Brent, through his actions, demonstrated the importance of giving back, and his contributions will not be forgotten.

Brent was a member and beloved brother of the Eastern Kentucky University Eta Alpha Chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. In Sigma Chi, Brent found a common bond of brotherhood and forged many life-long friendships. The Sigma Chi brotherhood left an indelible imprint on his life.

As a devoted Christian, Brent was a lifelong member of the Harrodsburg Baptist Church. He found great joy in organizing and planning weekly “Worship on the Water” church services in the summer at Sunset Marina. These lakeside services were so special to Brent as he thought church services held in nature promoted a deeper connection to God.

An avid cook, Brent found great joy in planning meals for his family and friends. His culinary delights were always eagerly anticipated at family gatherings and events. Brent further fulfilled his passion for cooking by working part-time for the past twenty years in the summer as a chef at Sunset Marina and Resort. Good food was Brent's love language. He loved every aspect of cooking, from planning the menu to food preparation and of course, taste testing. His favorite vacation spot was Florida, where he relished the sunshine and the opportunity to unwind in the sand and listen to ocean waves.

Brent had a special place in his heart for all animals, with a particular fondness for dogs and cats. His dogs and cats were always at his side and vied for his constant attention. He was known as the "Dr. Doolittle" of his household with a trail of animals following in his path.

We mourn the loss of Brent Newby, whose legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known him. His passion for life, compassion for animals, and dedication to his community have left a lasting impact on everyone he touched.

Funeral services will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Ransdell Funeral Chapel with Jonathan Johnston and David Carpenter officiating. Burial will follow in the Spring Hill Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at Beaumont Inn following the burial ceremony.

Pallbearers: Pat Armstrong, Rick Mallow, Steven Wood, Barry Newby, Clay Sadler, Brad Dunning, Zachary Landers, and Ricky Steele. Honorary Pallbearers are the Brothers of the EKU Eta Alpha Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Herrington Lake Conservation League, PO Box 404, Burgin, KY 40310, or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 2167, Lexington, KY 40588.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family on Brent’s Tribute Wall at www.ransdellfuneralchapel.com.