A Beautiful Life

Edna Newman Ross was born on June 26, 1942, in Jackson, Mississippi, alongside her twin brother, Edward, affectionately known as “Eddie.” At the age of ten, Edna and Eddie lost their parents and moved to Detroit, Michigan, where they were raised by their aunt, Hester Durr. It was there that Edna developed the strong foundation of faith, respect, perseverance, and hard work that would guide her throughout her life.

Edna attended Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Commerce Technical High School. With a heart for caring for others and a desire to continue her education, Edna began her healthcare career as a phlebotomist. While working, she furthered her education and earned her certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She went on to faithfully serve as an LPN for 32 years and dedicated an extraordinary 42 years of service to Henry Ford Hospital before retiring. Throughout her career, Edna touched countless lives with her compassion, dedication, and commitment to patient care.

Edna accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and faith remained a cornerstone of her life. After being invited by her dear sister-friend, Iris Spears, she found her spiritual home at Little Rock Baptist Church, affectionately known as “The Rock.” There, she faithfully served through the Nurses Ministry, Mothers Board, Sunday School, Women’s Committee, Food Giveaway, and Shoes for Kids program. Edna lived her faith through service, always willing to extend a caring hand to others.

In 1959, Edna welcomed her beloved son, Kenneth Maurice Newman, and in 1985, she proudly became a grandmother to Kaci Newman, a role she deeply cherished. In 1969, Edna married the love of her life, Eddie Ross, and together they shared a journey filled with love, companionship, and family. To know Edna was to love her. She had a warm smile, a caring heart, and a gentle spirit that made others feel welcome. She carried herself with confidence and grace, was always beautifully dressed, and will be remembered for her kindness, wisdom, generosity, and unwavering faith.

On August 6, 2026, Edna completed her earthly journey. She was preceded in death by her parents; her twin brother, Edward Newman; and her aunt, Hester Durr Ross. She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Kenneth M. Newman (fiancée, Catherine Wells); her granddaughter, Kaci Newman; her nieces, Edna and Zelda Newman; her cousin, Olivia; and a host of lifelong friends and loved ones whose lives were blessed by her presence. Edna leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, service, and love. The care she gave, the lives she touched, and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

Don’t cry for me now I’m gone, forI’m still here I’m by your side,My body’s gone but my soul is here,please don’t shed another tear,I am still here I’m all around, only mybody lies in the ground.I am the snowflake that kisses yournose,I am the frost, that nips your toes.I am the sun, bringing you light.I am the star, shining so bright.I am the rain, refreshing the earth,I am the laughter, I am the mirth.I am the bird, up in the sky,I am the cloud, that’s drifting by.I am the thoughts, inside your head,Whispering to you that I’m still here.

Prayers

With all your heart you must trust the Lord and not your own Judgment. Always let him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow. — Proverbs 3:5-6

Don’t give up praying. Keep trusting God, because the right time will come. What you plant in faith will not be forgotten. — Galatians 6:9