Flora Ellen Newman

Flora Ellen Newman, lovingly known as "Flo Jo," was born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on March 29, 1949. On September 23, 2025, she peacefully answered the call of her Lord and entered into eternal rest. Flo Jo was a proud member of Cherry Grove Baptist Church in Murfreesboro before moving her membership to Woodlawn Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church, where she served faithfully. Though she left school early, she proudly earned her G.E.D., showing her determination to always better herself and lead by example. She was an avid bowler, a tireless volunteer, and a devoted member of her church and community. After dedicating many years of service at the Montgomery County Court House, she retired in 2024. Flo Jo cherished returning home to Murfreesboro, where she reconnected with her classmates and attended every Red and Black reunion until her health required her to rest. Flo Jo was preceded in death by her father, James Daniels; mother, Nora Louise Hughes; sister, Stella Baskin; and ex-husband, Buddy L. Newman, Sr. She leaves behind her three "Heartbeats": Lenora (Darrell) Wallace, Constance Barfield, and Tanya Keesee; an honorary heartbeat, Kristal (Jose) Sanchez; and her only son, Buddy L. Newman II. She was the proud grandmother of Trevarius L. Newman, Kevin A. Epps, Braxton T. Barfield, Brandon T. (JoAnny) Barfield, Jordan M. Taylor, Kiana A. Keesee, Markus D.-L. Elliott, and Israel I. Newman and a beloved great-grandmother of seven. She is also survived by two nephews; one niece; a host of close cousins; her ride or die sister-cousin, Joyce A. Tillage; and an abundance of other family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. Though cancer became part of her journey, it never defined her. Flo Jo wore it like a badge of honor and left this world knowing she fought the good fight with courage and grace. Her legacy of faith, service, and unwavering devotion to her family will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. It's not goodbye, "it's see you later." In keeping with Ms. Flo's loving and generous spirit, her Heartbeats kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to her church, Woodlawn Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church. This church was her spiritual home, and your support in her memory would honor the faith and fellowship she cherished. Acknowledgements: Her three Heartbeats would like to thank each of you for the outpouring of love, kindness, and support shown to them during this difficult time. A very special thank you to her favorite hospice nurse, Ms. Patrice, and the entire hospice team for the gentle and compassionate care they gave to their mom. They are also grateful to the Montgomery County Circuit Court Clerk's Office for standing by them, and to Cindy Hackelberg for her unwavering friendship and devotion. To her church family, her dear friends and relatives, and her beloved bowling league family - your prayers, visits, and words of encouragement have lifted them more than you know. Your love has truly been a comfort and a blessing to the family. Please visit Flora's tribute wall and share a memory with the family.