Mary E. Newby

Mary E. Newby peacefully passed away on July 2, 2026.

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, Mary was the only child of Basil and Mabel Owsley.

Mary graduated from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School with honors, ranking in the top five of her class, and was a member of the National Honor Society. She continued her education at Wilberforce University.

While her father was serving overseas, Mary chose to support the war effort by becoming a defense worker. Goodyear was recruiting employees for its aircraft plant, where she accepted a position. It was there that she met her lifelong friend, Katie Epps, and the love of her life, Fred Newby, whom she would later marry. Together they shared 42 wonderful years of marriage.

Mary was a devoted woman of faith. She first united with Shiloh Baptist Church and later became one of the founding members of New Trinity Baptist Church. Throughout the years, she faithfully served her church family as President of the Choir and later as Treasurer of the Welcome Committee. She was the last surviving founding member of New Trinity Baptist Church. When asked what it felt like to hold that distinction, she simply replied, “Blessed.”

A lover of fashion and elegance, Mary pursued a career in modeling. After graduating from modeling schools in Cleveland and Akron, she became Akron’s first Black professional model. She also made history as the first Black model for Polsky’s Department Store in Akron. Her modeling career provided opportunities to travel and work alongside other professional models throughout the region.

Travel was another of Mary’s greatest passions. She enjoyed exploring the country with friends and especially looked forward to attending the Essence Awards events in New York each year for nine consecutive years.

Mary also had a deep love for animals. She faithfully supported PETA, The Humane Society, and the ASPCA through her annual contributions, reflecting her lifelong compassion for animal welfare.

Following a dedicated career, Mary retired from General Motors in 1996.

Mary’s favorite color was purple. Her favorite Scripture was Psalm 121, and her favorite hymn was “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.” When asked what message she would leave for future generations of New Trinity Baptist Church, she answered:

“Keep your hand in God’s hand and never let go. He is the truth and the light for everyone.”

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Basil and Mabel Owsley; her beloved husband of 42 years, Fred Newby; and her godparents, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence White.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her special son, William Toomer; her dear friends, Ernestine “Boots” Hayes, Ann Strickland, Jo E. Jackson, and Randy Napier of Youngstown, Ohio; her devoted church family and caregiver, Sandra Barker and special friend, Lanier Long and host of other relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives were forever enriched by her kindness, grace, faith, and enduring friendship.

Mary’s life was a beautiful example of faith, perseverance, elegance, compassion, and service. She leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know and love her.