Sewonia Kathryn Reed, 71, of Newport, Arkansas, passed away on September 28, 2024. She was born on October 6, 1952, in Newport, to Ernest and Elteaser (Grady) Balentine. Throughout her life, Sewonia brought joy and warmth to everyone she encountered, especially her family.
A loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, Sewonia was deeply devoted to her family. She took great pride in celebrating birthdays and was known for hosting memorable family birthday dinners. Her culinary skills were adored by all, with her chicken and dressing being a family favorite that will forever be remembered at gatherings.
Sewonia had a passion for music, particularly old Rhythm and Blues. She enjoyed relaxing to the smooth sounds of Kenny G, which became the soundtrack to many cherished moments with her family and friends. Her love for music reflected her joyful personality and her home was often filled with warmth and soulful melodies.
An outgoing and kind-hearted woman, Sewonia loved talking to people. Whether family, friends, or new acquaintances, she had a way of making everyone feel welcome and appreciated. Her genuine interest in others and her ability to connect made her a treasured presence in any conversation.
Sewonia was also a woman of deep faith. She was a long-time member of the Fifth Street Church of Christ, where her devotion to God and her church community played an important role in her life. Her faith was the foundation of the love and kindness she shared with everyone around her.
Sewonia is survived by her children, grandchildren, siblings, and many nieces and nephews. She will be dearly missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brothers, Edward Balentine and Ernest Balentine Jr.
She is survived by her husband, David Reed, of the home; sons, Robert Balentine (Angie) of Atlanta, Georgia, Demond Balentine Sr. (Hope) of Oklahoma, and David Reed Jr. of Newport; daughters, Monica Steel (Rickey) of Newport and Shonda Bobo of Newport; sisters, Gloria Butts (Brian) of Ohio, Tanja Garrett (Arnell) Of California, and Pamela Balentine of Springdale, Arkansas; grandchildren, Marcus Balentine, Jaleel Balentine, Destini Balentine, Darius Balentine, Craig Anders Jr. (Kelsie), Kia Anders (Tristan), Yaunica Balentine, Robert Balentine Jr., Raven Balentine (Jonathan), Ryan Balentine, Demon’Jenae Balentine, Paris Balentine, Demond Balentine Jr., Jahiriah Balentine, Antonio Balentine, Qualand Bobo, John Bobo, and Janesha Bobo and twenty-one great-grandchildren.
The memorial service will be held at Dillinger Funeral Home Chapel on October 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
