Mary "Dede" Newman

She was born January 4, 1952 to Frank D. and Mary M. Oblinger in the Free Territory of Trieste, now part of Italy. Her father’s career in the Army brought the family to many places around the world.

Dede earned degrees in education and reading from James Madison University and the University of Virginia. She taught public elementary school in Spotsylvania County for over 30 years before retiring in 2009. She taught with love and heart.

After retiring, she enjoyed taking care of her grandchildren, and participating in the shawl ministry at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ladysmith. The ministry knit shawls for the sick and elderly. The knitting brought together good people who appreciated each other’s work and friendship.

She is survived by her husband, Durham O. Newman, Jr.; her daughter, Laura N. Webster (Doug Jr.); her son, Christopher D. Newman (Cheryl); her grandchildren, Kaylee, Olivia, and Peter Webster, and Abbygail, and Jack Newman; her sister, Margaret O. Sourbeer; and her brother, Frank D. Oblinger, III (Janice).

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 pm on Friday, January 4, 2019 at Mullins and Thompson Funeral Service, Fredericksburg.

A Funeral Mass will take place at 11 am on Saturday, January 5, 2019 at St. Patrick Catholic Church.