Elizabeth "Liz" Marie Newberry

Elizabeth “Liz” Marie Newberry, 85, of Keokuk, passed away Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, Iowa.

She was born July 8, 1941, the daughter of William Allen and Gladys Marie Rhea Briley. Liz was a lifelong member of the Keokuk community and graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1959.

On June 27, 1977, Liz was united in marriage to Rodger Newberry at the Pentecostal Christian Church in Keokuk. He survives.

Liz devoted 28 years of her life to the Keokuk Community School District, where she worked as a secretary in the middle school office. She began her career with the district on May 5, 1973, and retired on June 30, 2001. She was known for her dedication to her work and the many people she came to know during her years with the school district.

Liz was a faithful churchgoer and a member of Family Worship Center. She generously shared her musical talents by playing the organ at church and also played the organ for many funeral services over the years. 

By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me. Psalm 41:11

She was an enthusiastic St. Louis Cardinals fan and loved cheering on her favorite team. She enjoyed crocheting, working crossword puzzles, and was a longtime fan of Elvis Presley. Liz especially cherished spending time with friends, including the “Gals of ’59,” with whom she enjoyed getting together and reminiscing.

She is survived by her husband, Rodger Newberry of Keokuk; one daughter, Cathy (Chris) Lotz of Blandinsville, Illinois; three sons, Caleb (Ruth Ann) Newberry of Austin, Texas, Jonathan (Tracy) Handyside of St. Louis, and Chad (Elyssa) Newberry of Roseville, California; grandchildren, Chelsie Bliss, Zach Lotz, Nathan Lotz, Joshua Newberry, Daniel Luke Newberry, Tabitha Newberry, Kylie Vahldick, Corren Handyside, Anjelica Beltran, Alleah Pullen, Jackson Newberry and Chloe Newberry; ten great-grandchildren, with one on the way; one sister, Dorothy (Rich) Burrell of Keokuk; one sister-in-law, Pat Rhea; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, John Briley, Ned Rhea and William “Sonny” Briley; and two sisters, Betty Lou McGeehee and Wanda Baugher.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with Pastor Larry Connour officiating with the assistance of Pastor Norman Talbert. Burial will follow in Hickory Grove Cemetery in Keokuk.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, September 25, at the funeral home, with the family meeting with friends at that time.

Memorials may be made to Family Worship Center or Hickory Grove Cemetery.