Lois Helen New was born in Waco, Texas July 13, 1940 to Robert B. New and Mildred M. Lockett New. Both parents, one sister, Marion Yvonne and one brother, Charles Ray preceded her in death.

Lois Helen New was marked early in life as a gifted musician. She began her formal music training at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church under the tutelage of her cousin, Acy Hatchett. While growing up in Waco, Texas, she had her own radio show at the age of nine and was a featured artist at Baylor University Summer Concert Series. She would also travel with her Uncle George singing and playing as he ministered the Word across the state of Texas. later, she would attend Bishop College in Marshall, TX where she studied journalism. She then met and married Charles E. martin and to this union they had one child.

The family eventually moved to Oklahoma City and she then united with the Mt. Olive Baptist Church where she became a minister of music. Lois' life was consumed with ministry. After many years of ministering in prisons, hospitals, and nursing home, she was ordained by Reverend Jolly Brown. Even as her health failed, she continued to minister at the Redeemer Lutheran, Autumn House Senior Living Center and Church Ablaze.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter and son-in-law, Dietta Yvonne and Dekoven Edwards; three grandchildren; Nanette Sylvan, Aziza Edwards and Coby Edwards; one sister, Melva McDowell and special brother-in-law, Charles McDowell; nephews: Reginald New(Shauna), Robert New(Brenda), Richard McCaroll, Ricky Cortez, Eddie Martin III (Erika), and Anthony Martin (Angel); nieces; Deborah Sharp, Stacie Glover(Michael), and Marvilyn Ray Hogg(Ricky); and a host of relatives and friends.

The Lord is my Shepard

The Lord is my Shepard; I shall not want, He make me lie down

in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores

my soul, He lead me in the path of righteousness for His name sake.

Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will

fear no evil; for thou are with me; Thy rod and staff they comfort me.

Thy prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou

annointest my head with oil; my cup runs over.  Psalms 23