Velma Jean Newburn

Velma Jean Newburn departed this life on March 21, 2025 in Baptist Health Medical Center-Little Rock. Born on October 2, 1950, in the Mt. Moriah Community of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, Jean spent her life dedicated to caring for others as a devoted nurse (Health Care Professional) at Baptist Health Medical Center in Little Rock for over 40 years.

“Jean” as she was affectionately called was the 2nd child born to Joel Edward and Mary Jane Seawood Newburn. She was a lifelong member of Mt. Morriah Missionary Baptist Church and as her health failed she would fellowship with the Seventh Day Adventist congregation.

A proud graduate of Peake High School in 1968, Baptist Nursing School and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Jean approached life with an unwavering spirit. She will be lovingly remembered not only for her professional dedication but also for her vibrant personality and zest for life. Jean was an active member of the “Red Hats”, a ladies’ social club that brought joy to her heart and laughter into her life. She treasured her involvement with the Peake Alumni Foundation, fostering connections with old friends and inspiring new generations.

Jean’s adventurous spirit led her to travel across more than 30 states, with the pinnacle of her journeys being the historic 2012 inauguration of President Barack Obama. Those who knew her could always count on her for thoughtful gardening tips and a keen eye for sewing, as she enjoyed crafting unique pieces such as pillows, scarves, blankets with love and making mask for people during Covid 19.

In her spare time, you could find Jean shopping for treasures for herself and others or cheering passionately for women’s sports including the WNBA, WNCAA and championship wrestling – a testament to her spirited competitive nature.

Jean will be with her “buddy” again, Derrick Dupree Newburn, her only child born to her on January 7, 1973, who left her on September 22, 1999, whom she loved dearly; her parents, Joel and Mary Jane Newburn; her niece, Brandy Ferrell, who left on June 9, 1985 and a brother–in-law, Rev. Richard Harris.

Her sweet and lovely life will be forever cherished by her family, Thelma Harris of Little Rock, AR, Alvin (Edna) Newburn, Edward (Deborah) Newburn, Belinda Hughes and Ester (Samuel) Mitchell all of Arkadelphia, AR; Linda Todd and Ricky (Frances) Seawood of Little Rock, AR, Connie Kidd of Tucson, AZ and LaRon Hughes, Ph.D, a nephew who she cherished as a son; an uncle, Alfred Jerry Smith and an aunt, Bernice Newburn Seawood, special friend, Ray Tippen of Little Rock, AR; along with a caravan of nieces and nephews, she loved them all as her own; numerous cousins, as well as the Mt. Morriah Church Family.

As we reflect on the beautiful chapters of Jean’s life, we are reminded to embrace the joy, passion, and love she shared with all of us. Though she may have departed from this world, her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know her.