Rita S. Newell

Rita Rosalie Newell was born in Summit, New Jersey on December 30, 1926, and passed away at the age of 99 in San Antonio, TX on February 26, 2026. Rita’s parents were Daniel and Frieda Sobel, and she had an older brother Artie Sobel. Rita grew up in Madison, New Jersey and graduated from Madison H.S in 1944. She was a cheerleader and “Rhumba Queen” at the Senior Prom. The impact of WWII caused sadness for Rita because of all the classmates who died or were injured in the War.

Rita met her husband Wallace Newell around 1947, and the couple were married on January 23, 1948. Rita and Wally were married for 38 years when he passed away. Rita is survived by her son Steven Newell, daughter Shelly Newell, and son-in-law Charles Coleman. In addition, she is survived by her grandchildren Gabrielle Newell, Weston Newell, and great-grandchildren, Emerald Rankin, Kaysen Newell, and Zander Newell.

Rita was a homemaker who later worked helping her husband with his business operations. Rita worked at SAKS Fifth Ave from ages 60-70 in women’s apparel. She served dutifully for the Hadassah organization, both assisting Donor Dinners, and later being honored with the designation of Ema of Hadassah. My mother was a beautiful and fun person, and she will be dearly missed.

Funeral Services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, March 2, 2026, at the Temple Beth-El Cemetery at 1715 Austin Highway, San Antonio, Texas 78218. Reception to follow at the home of Steve Newell and Chuck Coleman, 10303 Crystal Field, San Antonio, Texas 78254. Donations to Hadassah.org or the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund at Temple Beth-El are appreciated.