Ernest M. Newkirk Dr.

NEWKIRK Dr. Ernest M. Newkirk, retired physician/professor, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2011. He had a consistent reputation of being an excellent gynecological surgeon and was a mentor to many young doctors. Dr. Newkirk was born on August 18, 1921 in Petersburg, VA. He graduated from Virginia Union University, received his Doctorate of Medicine (M.D.) from Meharry Medical College, and was a post graduate scholar in Gynecology at Columbia University. He then received Board Certification and became one of the first Board Certified Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology in the United States. In 1953, he began his practice in Columbus, Ohio and was one of the first black physicians to gain privileges at local hospitals. He delivered over 6,000 babies and never turned down a patient regardless of insurance or lack there of. He was a member of Sigma Pi Phi BoulÃ© (Lambda Chapter), the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and was a life member of the NAACP. Honors and awards include: Distinguished Service Award, Columbus, Ohio-1990; Distinguished Alumni Award from Meharry Medical College for Outstanding Achievement in Medicine-1979; Nominated to Who's Who in Ohio-1960 and 1961; Outstanding Men in Ohio-1959 and 1960; Fellow American College of OB-GYN; Fellowship American College of Surgeons-1959; Diplomat of American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology-1957; Diplomat of National Board of Medical Examiners, as well as, many other honors received throughout his 58 years of service. He performed rounds at OSU East just two days before his admittance to the hospital. He was 90 years of age. He is preceded in death by his son Dr. Ernest M. Newkirk II (Janine). He is survived by his son, Eric Newkirk (Patricia); daughter, Erina Newkirk (John Davern), Marla Delgado, Dr. Miguel Delgado (Becky); and grand-children, Remington James, Connor, and Elayna Newkirk, Miguel Delgado III and Ashley Delgado. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. at the RUTHERFORD-CORBIN FUNERAL HOME, 515 High St, Worthington on January 7, where there will be a Sigma Pi Phi BoulÃ© ceremony at 11am followed by an Alpha Phi Alpha ceremony. A special memorial service will begin at 12 Noon. A private burial service will take place in Richmond, Virginia. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the MLK Jr. Performing and Cultural Arts Complex, 867 Mount Vernon Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43203.