Emma Norton Watkins Newberry
November 24, 2015
Emma Lee Norton Watkins Newberry was born June 10, 1918 in Laurinburg, N. C. to Grady and Lila Norton. She was a beloved woman known fondly as mother, mom, Grandma Dee, Dee Dee to her family, and Lee to many of her friends. She was employed by St. Joseph Hospital for 24 years as nurse. She had a hard working, compassionate heart as a nurse and as a mother, raising 4 children after the death of her husband, John Wilbert Watkins. True grit, determination, strength, and fierce independence were also attributes that described Emma. She was a long time member of Bethesda Presbyterian Church.
She is preceded in death by her parents, 5 siblings, youngest son, Robert Norton Watkins (Susanne Watkins Vecchio) and her second husband Charlie E. Newberry. She is survived by her children John Wilbert Watkins, Jr. (Elaine), Charles Edward Watkins (Norma), Brenda Watkins Williams (Ricky) and 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
Emma loved to travel, especially with her sister Mabel and her husband Archie. Together they traveled the 48 contiguous states. She was an avid pier fisherman and loved Long Beach. She also enjoyed playing gin rummy, bingo and lottery scratch off tickets. Shopping, working puzzles and reading were other favorite pastimes. Emma was very particular about how she looked and never a day went by without her hair just so, lipstick and her favorite jewelry on and TicTacs in her purse.
She has blessed us all with 97 years of love that only a mother, grandmother, great grandmother can provide and will be greatly missed.
Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Monday at Powell Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Ray Mims officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Powell Funeral Home on Sunday from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Following the service friends and family are invited to the home of Ricky and Monica Williams, 35 Whistling Straight Rd., Pinehurst.
The family would like to thank Bethesda Presbyterian Church home visitation team, Hospice and their team of caregivers. Also a special thank you goes to Jolene Watkins and Diane Brown for the exceptional and selfless care they provided for Emma that allowed her to stay at home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to FirstHealth Hospice Foundation, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374.
Powell Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Newberry Family.
Online condolences may be made at: PinesFunerals.com
Aunt Dee lived a great life – 97 years. All the memories of her love for her family I will remember. She always wanted to see us even if it was for a few minutes. I know you are at peace in the arms of our Lord and Savoir. We will miss you.
Celebrating a blessed home going with you of a much loved woman. May you find peace in your loss through beautiful memories and hope for a future reunion.
We are very sorry to hear of Mrs. Newberry’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones in this sad time. (Isa. 25:8)
You are in our thoughts and prayers during your loss.
In Deepest Sympathy,
The Schall Family-
We would like to express our deepest sympathy. May those precious memories be foremost in your hearts and minds during this difficult time.
Isaiah 25:8