Willie Newkirk

Willie Newkirk, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2023, at the age of 72. Born on March 8, 1951, in Amarillo, Texas, Willie remained a lifelong resident of his beloved hometown, where he also concluded his earthly journey surrounded by the warmth of his family.

Willie graduated from Palo Duro High School in 1969 and soon after, he started a successful career as an industrial machinist and amazing innovator. He changed career paths in 1991 when starting North Amarillo Auto Parts. His dedication to his work was evident in the way he valued and cherished his customer relationships, treating each person not merely as a client but as an extension of his own family.

Willie’s life was enriched by his loving wife of 54 years, Noline Newkirk, and together they raised two wonderful sons, Matt Newkirk with his wife JoAnna, and Hank Newkirk with his wife Crystal. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his four grandchildren, Raci, Blake, McKenna, and Kylie, who became the apples of his eye. Willie was also a supportive brother to his sisters Alice Smith and her husband Jim, Bethany Rose, and to his brother David Newkirk and his wife Dorothy. His family was the cornerstone of his life, and he instilled in them values of generosity, passion, and selflessness.

Outside of his business, Willie’s passion for motorsports was a significant part of his life. He could often be found at the local dirt track, rooting on his sons, and lending a helping hand to friends and strangers alike with their racecars. His enthusiasm for the sport was contagious, and his presence at the track became a fixture that many looked forward to every race day. His commitment to service and the community earned him a well-deserved induction into the Amarillo Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2017.

Willie’s love for his work was unparalleled. He looked forward to every day spent at North Amarillo Auto Parts, not just managing his business, but to connect with his customers. His ability to make everyone feel special and valued was one of his most admirable traits. Visiting with friends and customers wasn't just a pastime for Willie, but a way of life that he deeply cherished.

Those who knew Willie would describe him as a man of great generosity. His passion for life and selfless nature left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He was a man who put others before himself, offering his time, resources, and heart to anyone in need. Willie's legacy will be remembered by his unwavering kindness and the profound love he had for his family and community.

As we bid farewell to Willie Newkirk, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life brimming with love, laughter, and the joy of giving. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, and he will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Willie's family will honor his memory, reflecting on the countless happy moments and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. As the sun sets on Willie's time with us, we take solace in knowing that his spirit will forever race along the tracks of our hearts, fueling us with cherished memories and the essence of his remarkable life.

The family has asked that memorial contributions be made to:

Amarillo Motorsports Hall of Fame

PO Box 52040

Amarillo, Texas 79159