A CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Christine Saffold Newman
OCTOBER 20, 1938 • AUGUST 6, 2024
Christine Saffold Newman was born on October 20, 1938, in Lexington, Mississippi, the cherished only child of the late Willie Frank and Ethel Saffold. She embodied love, laughter, and unwavering faith. Her presence illuminated the lives of those around her, a radiant beacon of joy, kindness and warmth that left an indelible mark on everyone blessed to know her.
Reared in the tender care of her grandparents, the late Elder Clemon and Elmira Woods, Christine was nurtured in a home where love and faith were the foundation of life. Under the guidance of her grandfather, the esteemed pastor of Poplar Springs C.M.E. Church, she developed a deep and abiding devotion to her faith—a commitment she carried throughout her life and eagerly shared with others.
Christine’s early years at Mount Olive School near Lexington were marked by her boundless kindness and that dazzling smile—a smile that could brighten even the darkest days and uplift the spirits of all who crossed her path. After high school, she found her lifelong partner, Willie James Newman, and together they built a life rich in love and family. Their union was blessed with two children, Sandra Denise and Gregory Alan, and their 57-year marriage stood as a testament to unwavering commitment until Willie’s passing on December 26, 2012.
Christine found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed watching shows like First 48 and Ice Road Truckers, but her passion was cooking. The beautiful woman found immense pleasure in watching the Cooking Channel, eagerly absorbing new recipes and techniques. Christine delighted in sharing her culinary discoveries with friends and family, often describing in vivid detail the delicious meals she envisioned preparing. Her enthusiasm for
life extended beyond the kitchen; she had a special place in her heart for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their youthful energy and playfulness brought her immense happiness, often making her feel young at heart.
Christine’s life was further enriched by her close bonds with her cousins, whom she loved like siblings. She cherished their phone calls and visits, moments filled with laughter and fond memories of their shared childhood. Christine could recall even the smallest details from the past, weaving them into vivid stories that brought those cherished memories to life, often leaving everyone in stitches with laughter.
On August 6, 2024, Christine was called home to her Savior, leaving behind a legacy of love, joy, and faith that will continue to inspire those who knew her. Though two of her great-grandchildren preceded her in death, their memories remain forever etched in our hearts. Christine’s spirit, full of life and love, now flourishes in the eternal embrace of Heaven, yet it stays with us in the countless memories she created.
She leaves behind a family that will forever celebrate her life, including one daughter, Sandra Mabry of Cleveland, OH; one son, Gregory Newman Sr. (Lavonnia) of Frisco, TX; four granddaughters, Kenya Williams of Cleveland, OH, Catrena Legier (Aaron) of Tampa, FL, Tyesha Blakney (John) of Hattiesburg, MS, and Niyia Newman of Gautier, MS; three grandsons, Gregory Bass of Cleveland, OH, Gregory Newman II (Shelby) of Ocean Springs, MS, and Andrew Martin III (Angela) of Cleveland, OH; fourteen great-grandchildren; and twelve great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of cousins and friends. Her love, laughter, and unwavering faith will remain with us always, a guiding light in our hearts.
A Fallen Limb
A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says, “Grieve not for me.”
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song.
The good life I lived while I was strong.
Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.
My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest.
Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small.
Go on with your life, don’t worry about falls I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin. Until the day comes we’re together again.
PALLBEARERS
Gregory Newman Sr.
Gregory Newman II
John Blakney
Deonte Barnes
Javonte Blakney
Clarence Blackmon
FLOWER GIRLS
Granddaughters
Great-Granddaughters
OFFICIANT
Rev. Nathaniel Studway
Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church
Tchula, Mississippi
ARRANGEMENTS
Porter and Sons Funeral Home
Lexington, Mississippi
INTERMENT
Thurmond Cemetery
Lexington, Mississippi
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The family of Christine Newman extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers and expressions of sympathy during this time of loss. Your support has been a source of comfort and strength, and your kindness and generosity deeply touch us. As we navigate this period of grief, please know that your thoughts and prayers are deeply appreciated. We find solace in the outpouring of love and support from friends and family. In turn, we will keep you in our prayers and ask for God’s blessings upon you, as you have so graciously asked for His blessings upon us.
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
GALLATIANS 6:9-10 ESV
