Funeral services celebrating the life of Mattie Irene Newcomer Solomon, 101, will be held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, February 2, 2026, at Lea Joyner Memorial Methodist Church, Monroe with Rev. Natalie Faust and Rev. Betty Swanson officiating. Private family interment will be held at a later date, under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. until service time.

Irene was born on April 24, 1924, in Collinston, Louisiana, to Mattie Foster Robbins and Harmon Robbins. She was the seventh of eight children in a close-knit family. She was preceded in death by her siblings Ila Belle, Oma Delle, Thomas Jacob, Earl, Levon, Edwin, and Marie with whom she shared a special bond.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Irene was the oldest active member of Lea Joyner Memorial Methodist Church, where she remained devoted and involved for many years. Her life reflected her favorite Bible verse, Psalm 37:3: “Trust in the Lord, and do good”. She lived these words daily through her kindness, generosity, and unwavering trust in God by witnessing to others.

Irene was a devoted mother to her children: Rob Newcomer and wife Dianne, Paula Burgess and husband Jim, Linda Bashner, Pam Vaughan and husband Lawrence, and Lori Calhoun. She was preceded in death by husbands, Paul R. Newcomer and Reverand Joe Solomon; son, Kyle Solomon; and Linda’s husband, Stewart. Irene was also a proud grandmother and great-grandmother; all of whom brought her immense joy.

An entrepreneur at heart, Irene built a successful career in the travel industry. She had a true love for adventure and spent many years traveling the world, embracing new cultures and experiences with curiosity and enthusiasm. She was the first female board member for both the Monroe Chamber of Commerce and St. Francis Hospital. Her stories, wisdom, and independent spirit will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

Mattie Irene Newcomer Solomon leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, perseverance, and a life well lived. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

Pallbearers will be Scott Vaughan, Matt McTurner, Nick Benoit, Adam Hodge, Ben Trevino, and Jason Nichols. Honorary pallbearers are John Tolar, Dr. Joe Barron, Joey Solomon, Roger Smith and Mike Hammock.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff of Compassus, St. Joseph’s Assisted Living, and her personal caregivers Vicki, Dreka and Tasha.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lea Joyner Memorial Methodist Church or Rays of Sonshine.