Pam Newman

Esther Pamela Rohling Newman, of Hammond, Louisiana, passed away at her home surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the age of 81. She was born on September 14, 1944, in Robert, Louisiana, the daughter of the late S.F. "Dutch" Rohling and Esther Sohayda Rohling. Pam was a graduate of Hammond High School, Class of 1962. For over three decades, she followed in her mother’s footsteps, serving as a unit secretary at North Oaks Medical Center until her retirement. Pam dedicated her life to her unwavering faith in the Lord, demonstrating the importance of Christian faith in every aspect of her existence. A long-time and faithful member of Grace Baptist Church in Tickfaw, her devotion shone brightly, inspiring those around her. Even when circumstances made it difficult to attend services in person, she remained steadfast in her worship by watching live streams. Pam was an active supporter of sharing the Gospel, alongside her husband, as a member of the Gideons International Society. She expressed her love through her many talents including cooking, crocheting, and needlework. Pam enjoyed traveling alongside her husband and treasured friends. Especially when they would ride motorcycles in the Smokey Mountains. Her commitment to her family was unwavering. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, constantly present at special events and celebrations. She had a unique talent for remembering her family during birthdays and holidays, ensuring that they felt cherished and appreciated. Pam was also part of a close-knit group of friends known as the Ya-Ya sisters, whose bond was characterized by unwavering support and companionship. They stood by each other through the trials of life, embodying the spirit of friendship that Pam valued so deeply. Pam will always will be remembered for her kindness, dedication to her faith, and profound love for her family and friends.

Pam is survived by her daughter, Stacy Newman Harris (John); son, Steven Wayne Newman (Josie); grandchildren, Nathan Bentley Harris, Natalie Grace Harris, and Stephanie Jo Newman; great grandson, Waylon Bryce Harris; her Ya-Ya sisters, Annette Baudoin, Joy Simpson, Jeanie Lieser, Lynette Salmon, Roxanne Denson, and Lavonne Samuels; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and special friends.

In addition to her parents, Pam was preceded in death by her husband, Ivy Wayne Newman, Jr.; sister, JoAnne Frances Tallo; aunt, Lorraine Rohling; and her Ya-Ya sisters, Janice Laird, Selene Sherrill, and Patricia Connell.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 2000 N. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, Louisiana 70401 on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Visitation will continue at Grace Baptist Church of Tickfaw on Sunday, March 1, 2026 from 1:00 pm until the Funeral Service begins at 2:00 pm.

Interment will follow at Rose Memorial Park Cemetery in Hammond, Louisiana.

Donations may be made in Pam's memory to the Gideons International at www.gideons.org/donate.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.