Lorine (Stringer) Newby

We gather here, hearts full of gratitude and eyes lifted to the heavens, to celebrate the life and legacy of a virtuous soul - Mrs. Lorine Stringer Newby, a woman of unwavering faith and boundless love, who was called to her eternal home on Monday, June 24, 2024. Born on a crisp autumn day, November 17, 1922, to the late Ewell and Corine Stringer in Hodgesville, Alabama, Lorine's journey began as a light that would shine brightly for 101 years within the Houston County area.

Lorine's life was a testament to the power of love and devotion. She was a pillar of strength for her family, a beacon of hope for her friends, and a faithful servant of the Lord.

She was educated at the old Smithville School - a foundation that would help her build a life of diligence and service. For ten years, Lorine was a dedicated worker at the Leon Motel in Dothan, Alabama, where her warm smile and kindness left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path.

Lorine's life was one of service, not only to her family but also to her community. After joining in Holy Matrimony with her life partner, the late Harvey Lee Newby, she continued to walk in faith as a devoted member of Smithville Missionary Baptist Church. Her dedication to her faith was evident in all she did, and even as her health declined, her spirit remained strong and steadfast.

A woman of profound faith, Lorine embodied the words of the Apostle Paul, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7). Her life was a reflection of these words, a journey marked by resilience, grace, and an unwavering commitment to her beliefs. She was a faith-filled and loving soul, whose presence could turn the darkest night into the brightest day.

Lorine's influence stretched far beyond the walls of her home and church. Her kindness touched the lives of many, and her wise counsel was sought by those navigating the storms of life. She was known for her warmth, her generous spirit, and her ability to see the good in every person she met.

Predeceasing her in death were those she dearly loved: her parents, Ewell and Corine Stringer; her cherished husband; her daughters, Gracie Jones and Annie Jean Bell; her sons, Willie D. Newby and Eddie Lee Newby; her brother, Norman Stringer; and her sister, Lettie B. Stringer.

Despite these losses, Lorine's spirit never wavered. She leaves behind a rich legacy of love and perseverance to her two devoted daughters, Mattie (L.C.) Williams and MaryAnn Newby. Her life further blossomed into a beautiful garden of descendants, including twenty-six grandchildren, eighty-one great-grandchildren, one hundred thirty-seven great-great-grandchildren, and nineteen great-great-great-grandchildren, each a petal of her enduring love. Her sister, Beatrice Jones; sister-in-law, Mary Stringer; and son-in-law, Charles Bell, along with a host of family and friends, will forever hold her in their hearts.

As we bid farewell to Mrs. Lorine Stringer Newby, we do so with the knowledge that her life was a well-lived sermon of love, one that will continue to inspire and guide us. Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing that she is now at peace, resting in the arms of the Almighty.

In the words of the great Southern preacher, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., "Death is not a period that ends the great sentence of life, but a comma that punctuates it to more lofty significance." Let us find comfort in knowing that Lorine's sentence has been punctuated with the most majestic of commas, as she enters into the glory of her eternal rest.

We shall not say goodbye to this remarkable woman, but rather, until we meet again. May her soul, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

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