Newport Honors Legacy of Community Leader Robert Ingguls

Lifelong advocate for youth, historian, and pillar of the Newport community remembered at city tribute

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The city of Newport, Kentucky held a tribute to honor the enduring legacy of Robert Ingguls, a longtime youth advocate, historian, and community leader who passed away in 2025 at the age of 94. Ingguls was born in Lexington and raised in Newport, where he became a preservationist for the historic Southgate Street School and was involved in numerous civic and religious organizations over his decades of service.

Why it matters

Ingguls' life and work exemplified the importance of community leaders who dedicate themselves to preserving local history and supporting youth development. His story highlights how individuals can make a lasting impact through tireless advocacy and service, even as their communities undergo significant changes over time.

The details

Ingguls was born in 1931 and grew up attending the Southgate Street School in Newport, later becoming its preservationist to ensure the historic building was not demolished. After graduating from William Grant High School in Covington, he earned a scholarship to Fisk University before pursuing a career in the medical field as an ophthalmic assistant and instructor. Throughout his life, Ingguls was deeply involved in the NAACP, several Baptist churches, and the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge, serving in leadership roles such as music director, organist, and noble advisor.

  • Ingguls was born on September 11, 1931 in Lexington, Kentucky.
  • Ingguls graduated from William Grant High School in Covington in 1950.
  • Ingguls became Master Mason of Newport Lodge No. 120 in July 1976.
  • Ingguls became a noble of the Mystic Shrine of Aleikum Temple #96 on May 2, 1977.
  • Ingguls passed away on September 15, 2025 at the age of 94.

The players

Robert Ingguls

A lifelong resident of Newport, Kentucky who dedicated his life to youth advocacy, historic preservation, and community service as a member of numerous civic and religious organizations.

Tom Guidugli Jr.

The Mayor of Newport, Kentucky who presided over the tribute honoring Ingguls' legacy.

John Hayden

The City Manager of Newport, Kentucky who discussed plans to open the historic Southgate Street School as a testament to black history.

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What they’re saying

“Black history lives through the enduring legacy of leaders like Robert Ingguls, who we honor tonight.”

— Tom Guidugli Jr., Mayor of Newport (linknky.com)

“We have been working with the folks at the Masonic Lodge that are in charge of the Southgate Street School and look very much forward to very soon opening that up to what I think it deserves to be. A testament to black history and to those who went to that school. So, we're working very hard with them.”

— John Hayden, Newport City Manager (linknky.com)

What’s next

The city of Newport plans to open the historic Southgate Street School, where Ingguls was a student, as a testament to black history and the experiences of those who attended the school.

The takeaway

Robert Ingguls' life exemplified the power of community leaders who dedicate themselves to preserving local history and supporting youth development. His story serves as an inspiration for how individuals can make a lasting impact through tireless advocacy and service, even as their communities undergo significant changes over time.