Ben Lee Newson Sr., of Rockford departed this earthly life May 31, 2023. He was born June 27, 1924 in Plumerville, Arkansas the son of Lenon and Amelia Newson. Ben married Dorothy Beecham July 10, 1948, she preceded him in death. He was employed as a Melter by Gunite Foundry over 20 years before getting injured. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army for a short while.  He was a member of Pilgrim Baptist Church, serving as a Deacon, a Trustee, he was one of the members who helped build the current location. Ben attended Schools in Plumberville.

Ben leaves to cherish many loving memories, his son, Leonard (Sally) Newson; daughter, Mary Emma Barnes; 12 grandchildren; a host of great grandchildren, other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; wife Dorothy: son Ben Newson Jr;  four sisters Willa B. Knox, Mae Lois Stricklan, Louvenia Sanders, Barbara Brooks: three brothers, John B. Newson, Frank Newsom, Harry D. Newsom.

Services will 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 9, 2023 at Pilgrim Baptist Church 1703 S. Central Avenue. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.