Jessie Mae Lewis Newman

Jessie Mae Lewis Newman, 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughter, sister and granddaughters on Sunday, April 19, 2026, following a long battle with cancer. She was the beloved wife of Ralph Newman, with whom she shared 49 years of marriage. Together, they built a life grounded in love, commitment, and enduring partnership. They enjoyed many simple joys, especially raising strawberries, and jitterbug dancing together, reflecting their deep bond, shared energy, and love of life. Jessie Mae lived a life that had its moments of tragedy with the passing of her son Ralph Jr. and her husband Ralph but never lost her love for others, her devotion to her family, sister, and close friends and displayed her quiet strength of living each day to its fullest. She was a woman who gave selflessly to those around her, always putting her family first and creating a home filled with warmth, comfort, and kindness. Jessie Mae was full of personality and joy. She loved shopping trips, relaxing with her favorite Netflix series, weekend rides to the lake, and proudly cheering on the New Orleans Saints. Above all, she treasured her grandchildren, who brought her endless happiness and pride. She will be remembered as a strong woman with a gentle heart, whose love and kindness touched everyone around her.

She is survived by her daughter, Angela Marie “Angie” Newman; her three granddaughters, Madison Nicole Rodriguez, Megan Lynn Rodriguez, and Morgan Elizabeth Rodriguez; her sisters, Jacqueline Patterson (Jerry) and Carla Bourgeois (Hanson); and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom will continue to honor her memory and carry her love forward.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph Newman; her son, Ralph Newman Jr.; her parents, Evelyn Lewis Stafford, Jesse Lewis, and Carlton Stafford; and her brother, Michael Downey.

Pallbearers will include Jerry “Jiggers “ Patterson Jr., Hanson Bourgeois, Dennis Bravick, Edward “Twilight” Cercy, Max Pierson, and Jeremiah Pierson. Honorary pallbearer will be Jimmy Byers, and Kenny Ryan.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tanios and the staff of North Oaks Oncology, as well as Modern Hospice, for their compassionate care and support during her battle with multiple myeloma over the past two and a half years.

Visitation for Ms. Newman will take place Thursday, April 23, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454, with services to follow at 11:00 a.m. The committal service will take place at Sand Hill Cemetery in Ponchatoula immediately after the service.

Though she is no longer with us, Jessie Mae’s love, strength, and spirit will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

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.