Lillian Newbern

Lillian was born in Louisiana, March 30, 1943 to Lillian and Leander Lewis.  She was the (2nd) second of (3) three daughters born to this union.  In her early years she resided at 1770 E. Main St., Benton Harbor, MI and attended Hull School.  Later, the family moved to 1118 Broadway, Benton Harbor, MI and she attended Benton Harbor Junior High.  In her late teens she moved with her mother to Merrimac Street in Benton Township.  There she helped her mom take care of seniors and friends in need of a place to stay and some tender loving care.

Lillian was employed in the “Grand Parents” program in the Benton Harbor Area Schools for (15) fifteen years.  She assisted in the care of her mother as well as many nieces and nephews.  Throughout her adult life Marie never forgot a family birthday.  She would prepare Birthday cards and slip “a little something” inside each one.

Lillian maintained a positive attitude throughout her life.  When asked how she was, she would always answer, “I’m fine”.  She possessed a sweet spirit and loved everyone.

Lillian was preceded in death by her mother (Lillian), father (Leander) husband Ivory Newbern, Wilbert Wilkerson, and Sidney L. Polk (nephew).  Lillian has one son, Ryan Keith Lewis Jr.   She is survived by her sisters Marion Jeanette Ahmed and Hannah M. Locklear along with a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Special thanks to Connie Council for the love and care she shared with both Marie and Ivory.  We call her family, friend, daughter and caretaker.  God has a crown for you with many stars when he returns.

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