Obituary of Leona Christine Newsome

Leona Christine “Chris” Wilmoth Newsome April 18, 1936 – January 11,2024 Chris was born April 18th,1936 to Nathan Wilmoth and Rosalee Irene Berry in LaGrange, Georgia. Chris went to her heavenly home January 11th, 2024, at Good Shepherd Hospice House in Lakeland.

 She was preceded in death by two children, Johnny Lynn Spurlin and Lisa Joyce Morrow, her daughter-in-law Mary Cole, grandson G.W. Cole, great-granddaughter Shelby Griffin, her parents-Nathan and Rosalie, her sisters Sharon, Linda, Faye, and Edna and one brother Stanley. Chris is survived by her children, Janice and husband Michael Throgmorton of West Fork, AR, Jeannie Chodazeck of Lakeland, Eddie Cole of Polk City, Gary and wife (Allison) Cole of Lakeland, FL, and 8 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 9 great- great- grandchildren.

  Chris retired from International Paper Company in Auburndale in 1998. After retiring, she spent time furthering her love of crafting, woodworking, sewing, playing her instruments, singing, and writing music and poems. If you knew Chris, you would never forget her infectious passion for her family, her church, her life, and Jesus Christ. Chris’ personality was so vibrant and colorful that when she wrecked her car, her daughters would not let her buy another one, but in true Chris fashion, she sweet talked her sons into helping her buy a 4-wheeler. Chris would drive her 4-wheeler into town and could often be seen driving down the road with her groceries strapped to her 4-wheeler with a bungee cord. Chris wouldn’t let not having a car keep her from doing what she wanted, when she wanted. This is only one of many stories that could be told. Whether you knew her as Mom, Leona, Christine, Chris, or Grandma your life was blessed beyond measure. “We don’t forget, but something vacant settles inside us” (Roland Barthis). Until we meet again, rest easy knowing your family misses you and loves you and will continue your legacy of love and faith.

 Viewing is 12-1:30 and funeral at 1:30 at Kersey Funeral Home.

Everyone will be invited to celebration of Life at Bethany Freewill Baptist Church in Eaton Park after the Internment.