Dr. Virginia Kimbrough Newell, a distinguished mathematics educator, author, and civic leader, passed away peacefully in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on March 14, 2025, at the age of 107. Born on October 7, 1917, in Advance, North Carolina, she was the youngest of nine children born to William and Dinah Kimbrough. Her parents instilled a deep appreciation for education, fostering an environment where learning was a nightly family activity. Dr. Newell's academic journey was marked by excellence.

She graduated from Atkins High School in Winston-Salem and earned her bachelor's degree in mathematics from Talladega College in Alabama (as a 1940 graduate of Talladega College, she was their oldest alum). She furthered her education with a master's degree from New York University and a Doctor of Education from the University of Sarasota.

In 1943, she married George Newell, a fellow educator. Together, they taught in various institutions across North Carolina, including Washington High School, J.W. Ligon High School, and Shaw University.

In 1965, Dr. Newell joined the faculty of Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), where she played a pivotal role in establishing the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. She served as its chair from 1979 until her retirement in 1985, during which she was instrumental in developing the computer science curriculum and launching several initiatives aimed at enhancing student success, including the Math and Science Academy of Excellence, the New Directions for our Youth program aimed at preventing dropouts, and the Best Choice Center for after-school education. She was a cofounder and president of the North Carolina Council of Teachers on Mathematics

Dr. Newell was a long-time member and supporter of the National Association of Mathematicians (NAM) and received the NAM Centenarian Award in 2018. Many black mathematicians have been inspired by her co-edited book, Black Mathematicians and Their Works. In 2024, she was featured in the documentary, Journey of Black Mathematicians.

Beyond academia, Dr. Newell was a passionate advocate for civil rights and community development. She served on the Winston-Salem City Council from 1977 to 1993, championing causes such as fair housing, economic justice, and racial equality. Notably, she led efforts to construct the East Winston Shopping Center and co-founded the Ivy Arms Apartments and Community Center, providing affordable housing and community resources.

Dr. Newell's commitment to service extended to her involvement with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She was initiated into the Chi Chapter at Talladega College in 1938 and was a Diamond Soror (75+ year member); she held the distinction of being one of the oldest living sorors in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and at the time of her passing, was the oldest living soror in the Mid-Atlantic Region. Dr. Newell was also a Platinum Member (highest honor bestowed on members) of The Links, Incorporated.

In recognition of her lifelong commitment to service, she has received many honors, including being awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 2017 (conferred by the Governor of North Carolina for exemplary service to the state). She was also recognized on the floor of U.S. Congress by two North Carolina legislators, G.K. Butterfield and Alma Adams. In 2017, she received the Key to the City of Winston-Salem by Mayor Allen Joines, and in 2022, she was bestowed the North Carolina Dogwood Award by the North Carolina Attorney General.

She is survived by her two daughters, Dr. Virginia D. Banks, and Dr. Glenda Newell-Harris (Robert), both esteemed physicians; six grandchildren, Todd Payne, Matthew Banks (Jessica), Dr. Mary Branch, Brittany Harris Beauchman (Dr. Naseem), Dr. Phillip Harris, and Mark Banks; and four great-grandchildren, Grayden Payne, Olivia Branch, Zara Beauchman, and Zayn Beauchman; as well as a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, George F. Newell.

Dr. Virginia K. Newell's legacy is a testament to the transformative power of education, dedicated public service, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Her life's work has left an indelible mark on the Winston-Salem community and beyond, inspiring generations to pursue excellence and advocate for positive change.

A Quiet Hour for Dr. Virginia K. Newell will be held at 6:30pm Friday, April 11, 2025 at First Baptist Church, 700 Highland Avenue, Winston-Salem, NC. The Celebration of Life for Dr. Virginia K. Newell will be held at 11:00am Saturday, April 12, 2025 at Wait Chapel on the campus of Wake Forest University.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a scholarship fund in her memory. Contributions can be made to the fund in the following ways: Online donations: Visit: wsfoundation.org/newell to make a secure donation. Mailing donations: Checks can be made payable to "The Winston-Salem Foundation" with "Dr. Virginia K. Newell Memorial Fund" in the memo line, and mailed to: The Winston-Salem Foundation, 751 W 4th St #200, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.

The service may be live streamed at 11:00am on Saturday, April 12, 2025 by following the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/live/LFKOpiz1l20?si=39Fo0Xiv-7OE64up