Newman Fletcher Reichert

Newman Fletcher Reichert, 85, passed away on April 21, 2025, at home with three of his favorite ladies. Fletcher was born in Charleston, MO to Irene Ruth (Ault) Reichert and Horace Fletcher Reichert. He graduated high school in Appleton City, MO and briefly attended Drury College before entering the Air Force.

Shortly after that, his high school sweetheart, Betty Lou Huenefeldt, hopped on a train to Biloxi, MS and they were married the very next day. After 8 years of service and the birth of their 2 daughters, he went to work at TI in Dallas, TX and then to IBM until his retirement at the age of 52. Later he decided to drive an 18-Wheeler, often taking Betty with him.

Fletcher and Betty enjoyed traveling to all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico. They spent their winters in South Padre Island, TX or Tucson, AZ, and many summers trout fishing in the mountains of Utah. Throughout their marriage they lived in more than 20 houses in 8 different states. At one point they sold everything and spent time “On the Road Again” in their 5th Wheel.

Fletcher loved the outdoors, camping, hunting, fishing, and relaxing on the porch soaking up nature. His memories were highlighted by a lifetime of trips to the Eleven Point River with family and friends. He was known for his humor, sarcasm, puns, and his love of classic western movies. He always said, “The worse pie is still better than the best cake.” His favorite meals included pecan pie, hamburgers, ribs, and a Rum and Diet Coke. He loved hosting Fish Frys, chasing hot air balloons, or stopping along the roadside for a picnic.

Fletcher is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty, 2 daughters, Pam and Toye, grandchildren Ben (Jessica), Aimee (David), Andrea (Drew), Ashley (Jake), Jamie, and his great granddaughter Aria. He was blessed with many loving nieces, nephews, a large extended family and many friends. He said, “We never need an excuse to get together.” He loved holidays, birthdays, football games, Sunday lunches, and Somewhere Wednesdays.

We thank the Mills Cancer Center at Cass Regional Medical Center. Dr Singh and every member of the staff were very kind and attentive to his needs. A special thanks to Kelly who always remembered: 2 Diet Cokes, a little ice, no lid, no straw.

We will Celebrate Fletcher’s life on June 14th at the family home.