Geraldine Evelyn Newsome

A Life Lived to the Fullest!

“Oh, when I come to the end of my journey…,

He’ll understand, and say, ‘well done’.”

On Saturday, November 3rd, 2018 the earth stopped for just a moment, so that Geraldine Evelyn Newsome fondly called “Geri” could transition peacefully while into the comfortable and loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  It was indeed a fitting tribute to a life that she lived to the fullest.

Life and Family

Seventy-eight years have passed since Geri’s birth in Atlantic City, New Jersey to the late Luther Vick and Alice Pauline Harris.  She was raised by her foster parents Samuel and Essie Hill.   Her childhood years were spent in Marple, Pennsylvania.  She attended public schools in her formative years alongside her siblings and graduated from Marple Newtown Senior High School  in Marple, Pennsylvania.

Geri was a proud graduate of Virginia State University where she acquired a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.  Until her retirement in 1988, she had a successful career as a Computer Systems Programmer for the United States Department of Defense.   Her career afforded her the opportunity to work abroad in Japan, Korea, England, Germany, and Panama.

While working at the Department of Defense she met the love of her life, Matthew Newsome.  They were united in holy matrimony on September 21, 1991 and together they raised her twin sons (Dwayne and Wayne Lites). Initially, they chose to reside in Leesburg, Virginia and afterwards in Brunswick, Maryland.  In the mid 1990’s, they decided to make Frederick, Maryland their home.

Phenomenal Woman

Geri was a phenomenal woman! Who could forget her lovely smile, stylish dress, fancy hats, glamour and elegance which were evident in her beautiful outer appearance?  However, it was not only her outward appearance that caught our attention; but her inner being that captured our hearts. Her unwavering faith in the Lord and commitment to serving others was greatly admired. Her zest for life spilled over into everything she did. Her commitment to her family, church, and community was a reminder that her values were not outmoded, but were the bedrock of strong families, communities, and even stronger friendships.

As Geri lived her life to the fullest, she traveled extensively around the world.  She visited numerous destinations such as:  the Caribbean Islands, Dominican Republic, Greece, Dubai, Thailand, China, Egypt, and most of the United States.  In addition to her love of travel, Geri was an avid reader.  She enjoyed reading her bible and completing crossword puzzles, dining out, being a Dallas Cowboys fan, and of course…shopping!

Geri had an exemplary community service record.  She gave generously of her time and resources to numerous non-profit organizations.  She was the Queen of the “Foxy and Fab” Red Hat Society, a very proud member of Frederick County Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, incorporated, a dedicated member of the Honors class and a life-time member of the Frederick Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Incorporated where she served both on the local and district levels.

Abiding Faith

Geri’s Christian foundation was established at a young age, when she was baptized at Marple Baptist Church.  Good deeds and warm smiles were not only relegated to Sunday morning service, but were a part of her daily life.

Hope Christian Fellowship Church became an integral part of Geri’s life.  She was one of the original core members of HCFC.  She was an active participant in the Women’s Ministry and the Monday Night Women’s Bible Study.  She faithfully served in the Culinary Ministry, and was a beloved member of the Dance Ministry.  Prior to Joining HCFC, Geri was a member of First Missionary Baptist Church where she served as a devoted Missionary.    In August 2018, Geri was honored at the HCFC “Celebration of Wisdom”, an event created to pay homage to the elders within the congregation.

The Legacy

Geri, was a Mother, Grandmother, Great grandmother, Aunt, Sister, Friend and most importantly a Christian….all reflecting aspects of a life well-lived. A very special relationship was held between Geri and her granddaughter, Chiana.  Many people will never know the blessing of having a phenomenal woman as part of their day to day existence, but we did.  Through Geri’s life and endeavors on our behalf, we can continue to ensure her legacy lives on.

Geri was preceded in death by her brother RL Harris and son Wayne Lites.  In addition to her husband, Matthew Newsome, she leaves to cherish her legacy; son Dwayne Lites (Lyne), sister Roxie Graves; sisters Marie Kennerly, Cheryl Kennerly, & Barbara Jones; sister-in-law Mary Odom; grandsons Anthony Lites, William Lites, Kevin Dinh, Mathew Osterhoudt, Khalil Newsome;  aunt, Delores Johnson; granddaughters, Chiana Lites, Regina Ann, Nicole, Nichell, Lauren, and Tiffany Newsome, Sophia and Bridget Booker; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends from 9:30 am to 11:00 am on Thursday, November 8, 2018 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 703 W Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701.  Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 a.m.

Interment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, date and time to be announced.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered at StaufferFuneralHome.com.