Obituaries

On November 7, 2003, William McKinley Newsome passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones.

William was born on December 10, 1925 in Goldsboro NC to David and Bessie Newsome(Coons).

William attended elementary and high school in Goldsboro as well as West Virginia State University. He joined the US Navy where he served in Alaska and Washington State during World War II. Upon completion of his military service, he married Dorothy Flowers(deceased), also of Goldsboro. William was multitalented as a handyman around the house and could repair and build almost anything.

Additionally, he loved gardening and his vegetables were amazing. He was an active long time member of Mount Olive AME Zion Church, He sang in the men’s choir and participated in other activities. William was still working in his 80’s and continued to serve his community while working as a Companion to senior citizens younger than himself, and participated in various political elections throughout the years. He has been honored by various organizations for his work in the church and his military service. William loved his home and took great pleasure in sitting on his deck enjoying the view and the breeze. He was very quick witted and could come up with a humorous retort instantaneously.

William and Dorothy were blessed with seven children: Rhonda Newsome Smith, Bloomfield CT (Albert); William (Scottie) Newsome, Atlanta GA-deceased; Dave (Milo) Newsome, Fayetteville NC (Bobbery); Sheila Jones, Chicago IL (Gregory); Keith Newsome, Fayettville NC (Michelle); Jacqueline Butler, Waterbury CT (Larry) and Todd Newsome, Waterbury CT-deceased. He is also survived by a brother, David Newsome, Goldsboro NC (Ruby).

William said many times that the thing in his life that he enjoyed most was raising his children. They brought him tremendous joy throughout his life. He was a proud grandfather of nine grandchildren: Jordan(deceased) Alexandria, Albert, Edrica, Keith Jr, Kenneth(deceased), Kevin, Kerrissa, Keyana. He was also a great grandfather to six great grand children: Esmi, Deacon, Tatum, William, Tionjay, and Arya. They were the icing on the cake and he looked forward to any interaction with them whether in person or facetime.

A celebration of William’s life will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023 at 11am at Mt. Olive AME Zion Church, 82-100 Pearl Street, Waterbury CT. Viewing in Church from 10-11am. Burial to follow with at New Pine Grove Cemetery, Waterbury CT. James R. Sanders, Funeral Director and Colonial Funerals are handling the arrangements. For full obituary and to leave condolences visit Colonialfunerals.com.