Deanna Kay Newcomb

Deanna Kay Newcomb, 60, of Daleville, VA, earned her wings on September 23, 2026. Deanna was the beloved daughter of Cleatus "Honey" Newcomb and Joyce Boblett Newcomb. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Cledius T. and Gladys A. Newcomb and Dennis I. and Kathleen Wirt Boblett. She is survived by her aunts and uncles, Norma Broughman; Brenda Elliott; Carroll Boblett; Donna Hobbs (Paul); Steve Boblett (Carolyn); and Donald "Shorty" Boblett. She is also survived by her many cousins whom she loved dearly; her chosen family and friends all over the world, including her special friends Bird, Stephanie, Alvaro, and Nick; and her best friend and fur baby, Nooga. From an early age, Deanna forged her own path in the world. Born and raised in Buchanan, VA, she graduated from James River High School in 1984, where she played both softball and basketball. After graduation, she joined the United States Air Force, where she served as a radio operator on an EC-135 and flew with Strategic Air Command's Operation Looking Glass. A decorated veteran, Deanna held certificates of technical training from Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas and Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi, and she completed Combat Survival Training at Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington. After she took flight with the Air Force, she spread her wings and explored the world, finding her favorite corner of it in Galway, Ireland. Deanna returned to Galway often to visit dear friends and had hoped to retire there. While Deanna loved to travel, she was also deeply rooted in her Virginia heritage. When she returned home, she built an extensive, close-knit community and could often be found cooking, hosting, and entertaining friends and neighbors. She was an amazing cook, and a seat at her table was a gift to anyone lucky enough to have one. Deanna was feisty, loyal, and uncompromising in every aspect of her life. She was passionate about politics, justice, and equality for all people, and she never backed down from standing up for what she believed in. Her quick wit and sharp sense of humor could light up any room. She was also a huge UVA fan who cheered for the Hoos through every season. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, with a memorial service at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026. All services will be held at Botetourt Funeral Home, 14920 Lee Highway, Buchanan, VA, with Pastor Donna Hopkins Britt officiating. While flowers are beautiful, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Deanna's name to the SPCA of your choice or to the Buchanan Presbyterian Church Food Pantry, P.O. Box 517, Buchanan, VA 24066. Fly high, Galway Girl. We love and miss you.