Sybil E. New - beloved caregiver, crocheter of blankets, baker of treats, a loving presence to all she encountered, the matriarch of a large and loving family - passed away on September 14th, 2026.

Sybil was born on April 23,1938 in Marianna, Arkansas to Frank and Mollie James. She was the second eldest of 5 kids, her three sisters and a baby brother. Sybil grew up on a cotton farm, working in the field with her siblings and helping her momma. The family moved to Indiana when Sybil was 15, settling in Bloomington. It was there that she met her future husband, Mike New. Neither family was thrilled about the pair, but Mike and Sybil didn’t care, they were smitten with each other and decided to tie the knot on January 19,1957. They shared 64 years together when Mike was laid to rest in 2021.

Sybil and Mike planted their roots in Solsberry, Indiana where they raised their seven children. Sybil was the caregiver, the caring mother who kept her children in line and cared for each of them with love and compassion. She was unbelievably proud of each of her kids, and she was overjoyed as they began to have children of their own. Sybil’s family grew year after year, adding 24 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 2 great great-grandchildren.

Sybil was known in her community for babysitting for local families, treating their kids as her own. She made pies for Libby’s Cafe, passed out homemade popcorn balls to trick-or-treaters, acted as treasurer of her church in Newark, and crocheted more blankets than could be counted. During the 4th of July celebration in Solsberry, Sybil’s house was the best place to be, she had a front row seat to the fire department’s fireworks display, and she loved to host a big party so all her family and friends could celebrate together.

Sybil spent her final years in Bloomfield, hosting her family for Sunday dinners and enjoying her front row seat to the Apple Festival parade.

Sybil had a spot next to her on the swing for anyone who needed a listening ear.

To her family and friends, she loved each of you dearly.

Sybil was preceded in death by her husband, Mike, her parents, her siblings - Maxine and Roy - and her eldest son, Austin “Rod” New. She is survived by six of her children, Bill, Kevin (Paula), Danny (Lisa), Roy (Michelle), Larry, and Lora (Brad), as well as Rod’s widow, Brenda, her sisters Gracie (Charlie) and Annie, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Sybil’s family would like to thank Amedisys, especially Audra. As well as Lori with IU Health, for their care and advice.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 17th, at Lester Jenkins & Sons Funeral Home in Bloomfield. The viewing will be from 3p - 6p, with the service taking place immediately after.