The name Florence means "flourishing," "blooming," and "prosperous." From the very beginning of her life until her final days, Florence truly embodied the beautiful meaning of her name, blooming wherever she was planted and helping the spirits of those around her flourish.

Florence Newsome was born on October 16, 1958, in Boynton Beach, Florida. She was the 9th of 13 children born to Roosevelt Sr. and Carrie B. Newsome. Her parents instilled in her at an early age the importance of serving the Lord and getting a good education. She was a product of the Palm Beach County School District and a proud graduate of the Boca Raton High School class of 1976. Florence went on to attend her beloved alma mater, Florida A&M University (FAMU), where she earned her undergraduate degree in Computer Science in 1980.

Florence excelled in both the academic and theological realms. She maintained a lifelong dedication to growth and spiritual wisdom, a journey that culminated in her earning a Doctorate of Religious Education in 2001 from Evangelical Bible Seminary. Yet, among all her distinguished accomplishments, her greatest earthly treasures were her two beloved children: her son, Raymond, and her daughter, Jasmine.

Florence’s life was deeply rooted in her unwavering faith. She was a devoted congregant throughout her life, sharing her light as a member of The Church of the Living God, Pathway of Life Fellowship, and ultimately St. John Missionary Baptist Church. She loved nothing more than being in the house of the Lord, surrounded by fellowship and worship.

Even in retirement, Florence remained deeply engaged in her community. She was an active member of the SJMBC Senior Saints Bible Study, the Pompey Park Senior Club, and Aging In Place Elder Care Services Inc., while also dedicating her time to Healthier Boynton Beach and Rhonda's Promise Inc.

To know Florence was to be served by her. She had a true servant's heart, always seeking to uplift anyone and everyone she could. Her personal ministry often took place right over the telephone; she would evangelize, offer a comforting word of encouragement, or pray fiercely with anyone who just needed to hear a voice of hope. She was her family and friends' biggest cheerleader, always supporting their endeavors with boundless love.

Above all, Florence cherished the time she spent with her precious grandchildren and the many dear friends she cultivated relationships with over the years. Though she faced many challenges in her lifetime, she never complained. Instead, her mouth was filled with praise, worship, and profound thankfulness for all the good that God had done. She was, in every sense of the phrase, a silent warrior on the battlefield for the Lord.

On April 7, 2026, God officially welcomed His good and faithful servant home. The former things have passed away—no more tears, no more pain, and no more suffering.

She leaves behind a beautiful, blooming legacy of love, strength, and unshakeable faith. Florence is survived by her devoted son, Raymond (Juanita), and her loving daughter, Jasmine; her dear sisters, Shirley Owens, Pamela Newsome, and Margaret McFadden; her loving brothers, John Edward and Kenneth Newsome; and eight precious grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, loved ones, and friends whose lives will forever be marked by her presence here on earth.