Theresa Lillian Newell

Theresa "Dolly" Newell, loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on April 12th in the company of her daughter and son. Although those of us who loved her wake with heaviness in our hearts, we find solace in knowing she is looking down on us, reunited with the love of her life, friends, and family; all who are undoubtedly enjoying her fabulous Italian cuisine and feisty sense of humor.

Theresa was born on October 4, 1930 to Donato and Antoinette Nubile in Willimansett, Massachusetts. As a baby, her siblings thought she resembled a doll and thus acquired the nickname "Dolly" which she was known to all those whom she loved. In her teenage years, she met the love of her life, Kenneth Edward Newell, whose career in the military would be responsible for many relocations. They eventually settled in Virginia Beach, where they made their home for over 50 years and raised their children Gary and Joni.

Dolly was an outstanding chef and found true joy in preparing fabulous meals for those she loved. She enjoyed gardening, bowling, cross-stitch and camping. Those who knew her best would tell you that one of her biggest passions in life was caring for her granddaughter, Amber, who affectionately referred to her as "Meemaw".

Dolly is preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and husband. She is survived by her son, Gary Newell of Virginia Beach; daughter and son-in-law, Joni and Ron Fletcher of Richmond; granddaughter, Amber Newell of Jacksonville, FL; and Amber's mother, Diane Newell of Virginia Beach. A memorial service will be held on April 24th at 11am at Rosewood Memorial Park Cemetery, 631 N. Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Dolly's honor to the Meals on Wheels Program at www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org