Artie Mae Newsom

Artie Mae Newsom, 77, passed away peacefully at home on May 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and joy.

Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, Artie was the daughter of Primus (PM) Moore and Mamie Artie Mae Collins Moore. At an early age, Artie Mae accepted Christ as a member of Ward Chapel, AME church in McAlester Oklahoma. She was an active member in Sunday School Allen stars YPD.

As a youth living during segregation, she participated and took part in the Negro History Month program as active member of the Negro Brownie and Girl Scout troop, NAACP the National Association of Colored Women's club, Madame Depriest Girls club.

In the 60’s, she graduated from L’Ouverture School and shaped her lifelong commitment to equality and education. Artie, graduated Junior College, Eastern Oklahoma State, with a major in Home Economics. She later attended the Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts and Science in Chickasha where she received a BS in Home economics. Artie, along with her two friends, were proud members of the first integrated class at the all women’s college and first to graduate. This is where she began her journey of helping others.

While in college, she worked in the library and gained her love of books.Her first job at graduation was with OSU extension program in Pittsburgh County, McAlester, Oklahoma. After college, Artie taught health and wellness to families in need, a passion that would remain with her throughout her life. After a few years, given back to her community, she applied to work for the FBI and move to Virginia. She briefly worked for the FBI before returning to Texas, where she balanced substitute teaching with her role at Quaker Oats. Her career found its true home at Audie Murphy Veterans Hospital, where she served with dedication for 35 years before retiring.

Artie’s interests were as vibrant as her spirit. She learned to play piano as a child. She loved exploring the world of nutrition, listening to the smooth rhythms of jazz, and volunteering in her community. Her kindness, wisdom, and laughter touched everyone she met.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Primus (PM) Moore and Mamie Artie Mae Collins Moore; her brothers, Terrell Goldey Moore and Primus Moore Jr. (PM Jr); her daughter, Lynette Nichelle Newsom; her granddaughter, Sanna Keilani McNeil; and countless other loved ones who enriched her life.

She is survived by her sister, Lulla Moore Wilson; her daughters, Donyale Kamille Newsom and Lillian Nicole Fontanez; her granddaughter, Heaven Lynette Newsom; and her beloved nieces and nephews.

Artie’s life was a testament to resilience, generosity, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.