Juanita Newby – 1934-2025

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mother Juanita Newby, who departed this life on Monday, February 24, 2025. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother and faithful servant of God, she lived a life of devotion, love, and unwavering faith.

 

Mother Newby was born on August 26, 1934, in Dudley Lake, Arkansas, to Samuel Brooks and Gracie Rogers. She accepted Christ at an early age and remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life. She was a dedicated member of Waters Temple Church of God in Christ, where she faithfully served under the leadership of Elder Vernon Briscoe.

 

Mother Newby’s life was a testament to resilience, grace, and kindness. She was the matriarch of her family, always offering wisdom, warmth, and unconditional love. For most of her career, Mother Newby was a devoted homemaker, pouring tirelessly into her children and family. Yet, she broke through barriers of her time, learning to drive, opening a personal bank account and relocating to Little Rock where she was employed with the same employer for over thirty years. If not listening to her favorite gospel songs, watching “her stories” or latest Lifetime movie, Mother Newby could be found tending to her plants and spending time with her growing family.

 

Mother Newby was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Brooks and Gracie Rogers; her son, Stanley Newby; her brothers, Willester Hudson and Buddy Brooks; her sisters, Lois Ray, Jammie Brown, and Ninevah Ridgle; her great-grandchild, Quinton Taylor; and her great-great-grandchild, Zaylon Matthews.

 

Mother Newby’s presence was a blessing to all who knew her. Her faith, strength, and love will continue to inspire generations to come. She leaves behind a cherished legacy and will be lovingly remembered by her children: Randy Newby, Billy Newby, Arnita Newby, Barbara Brown, Sandra Anderson of Atlanta, Georgia; Michael Newby, and Sharon (Alvin) Burks. Mother Newby’s garden bloomed fifteen grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren; all who will miss her dearly.