Carolyn Newman

CAROLYN NEWMAN

Mount Vernon

Carolyn Sue Newman, 70, of Mount Vernon, passed away in Arizona on March 1, 2014, after a brief illness.

Carolyn was born outside of Parnell, Iowa, on Aug. 13, 1943, to Milo and Wilma (Misel) Miller. She graduated from English Valleys High School in 1961.

Carolyn married James L. Newman on Sept. 29, 1963, at English River Church of the Brethren in South English. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last fall. They eventually settled in Mount Vernon and raised their three daughters there. They have wintered in Arizona since 2006.

Carolyn worked as a secretary for the Federal Aviation Administration at the Cedar Rapids Airport for 29 years. After retiring from the FAA, she worked at Coe College and Neal's Water Conditioning before retiring in 2006.

She enjoyed gardening, crafting and cooking. Carolyn was also actively involved in the Cedar Rapids/Marion Chapter of Soroptimist International.

Carolyn is survived by her husband, Jim; daughters, Andrea (Dan) Sirls of Denver, Colo., Adriene (Dwane) Gragg of Williamsburg and Annie (Mike) Ruffalo of Ottumwa; and granddaughters, Naomi, Olivia and Danielle Gragg.

She is lovingly remembered by her brothers, Ron (Debi) Miller of Dysart, Lyle Miller of Mesa, Ariz., and Eldon Miller of Anoka, Minn., as well as many other family and friends.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Dale Miller; a sister, Donna Dabler; and a granddaughter, Katherine Sirls.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, April 26, at Morgan Funeral Choices, Mount Vernon. Friends may call from 4 until 7 p.m. Friday, April 25, at the funeral home.

Memorials in Carolyn's honor may be sent to Soroptimist International of Cedar Rapids/Marion, 2261 Ivanhoe Rd., Ely, IA 52227 or the English Valley History Center, 518 S. Flory St., North English, IA 52316.