Rona Newberry passed quietly on December 21, 2019, surrounded by her loving family in Concord, NC. Rona was born and raised in Norfolk, VA, the daughter of Clarence Carl and Ida Jacobson. In 1940, while chaperoning her sister on a blind date, Rona met a young sailor named Guy Newberry. Rona told the story of her meeting this handsome young man and telling him she was 18. Soon infatuated, her “Guy” went to Rona’s Father and asked for her hand in marriage. Unfortunately, he had to tell the startled young sailor that Guy should return in four years when Rona, in fact, would be 17.
Four years later, while still serving his country, Guy returned to marry his love and still young bride. That partnership would last over 61 years. With the war over, Rona and Guy began a family in Pensacola, FL, raising two fine sons and made a life filled with love and family.
In addition to being wife and mother, Rona worked in a variety of occupations over the years but she will be remembered by all that met her as a story teller. In phone conversations, personal dialogue, and letters Rona kept weaving her stories of family, friends and acquaintances. Rona never met a stranger.
She is survived by her sons, Irvin (and wife Sara), David (and wife Peggy), grandchildren Irvin “Butch” (and wife Kathy) Newberry, Jr., Wendy Perdue and Tara (and husband Brandon) Mitchell, great grandchildren, Garrett and Rachel Perdue, and Ella and Catherine Mitchell.
Rona was preceded in death by her loving husband Guy and sister, Esther Minter.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at Oak Lawn Funeral Home, 619 New Warrington Road, Pensacola, Florida. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services.
The family expresses their thanks for the care given Rona by Hospice & Palliative Care of Cabarrus County and by Concord Place during her illness.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be sent to the charity of your choice.
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