Bernita LaViece New

Bernita “LaViece” New, 90, departed this life on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Monette Manor Nursing Home.

She was born on August 18, 1935, in Leachville, to the late Harvey and Auda Welch. She was a graduate of the Class of 1953 of Leachville High School. LaViece spent most of her life in the Jonesboro area, a place she loved deeply and served faithfully. She retired as a hairdresser, a profession that perfectly matched her gift for connecting with people and making them feel seen and valued.

LaViece was a devoted member of Refuge Church of Jonesboro, where her faith was not only spoken but lived. She was a true prayer warrior, a passionate supporter of missions, and a woman whose love for the Lord overflowed into every relationship. Many described her as a motherly figure, someone people were naturally drawn to, because she had a rare ability to make everyone feel accepted, encouraged, and loved.

Creatively gifted, LaViece enjoyed drawing, painting, and quilting, and she was also a published author of two books. Her life was a testimony of faith in action. As one loved one shared, “She was a beautiful person. She loved the Lord with all her heart and it spilled out on everyone. You could witness the love of Christ pouring from her into others. She planted seeds of faith in Jesus Christ in so many people, especially her children.”

In addition to her parents, LaViece was preceded in death by her husband, Billy New Sr.; brothers, Bob Welch and Bill Cox; brother in law, Bob Roe; daughters, Carol Ann New and Linda Rogers; son, Billy New Jr.; son in law, Donnie Rogers; and grandson, Cleatus Rogers.

She is survived by her daughter, Valerie Hall and husband Bill; her sister, Shirley Roe; her chosen sister, Mazie Alphen; sister in law, Olene Welch Pickney; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; a lifetime of friends; and the Hope Class of Refuge Church of Jonesboro. She is also survived by numerous adopted children who were drawn to the love of Jesus which radiated from her life.

Visitation will be held Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Matt Smith. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Missions Ministry at Refuge Church of Jonesboro, honoring LaViece’s lifelong heart for spreading the love of Christ.