Lenora "Nonie" Needham

Lenora “Nonie” Needham, of Covington, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 97. She was born at home in Washington, North Carolina. Mrs. Needham, a devoted wife, community leader, and lifelong learner, passed away leaving behind a legacy of service and compassion. A 1946 valedictorian graduate, she later attended Appalachian State University, where her journey of dedication and achievement began. In 1950, she met Edward Needham in Raleigh, North Carolina, and they married on March 31, 1951, sharing a life filled with love and purpose across Montreal, Canada, Havana, Cuba, Newnan, Georgia, Cleveland, Ohio, and Covington, Georgia.

In 1971, she played a key role in helping to found Beaver Manufacturing in Mansfield, Georgia. Deeply committed to her community, she volunteered with the American Cancer Society, serving on the Board of the Newton County unit, and worked tirelessly to promote adult literacy and women’s health through the GFWC Service Guild of Covington. She was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church of Covington and a proud adopter of Mansfield Elementary School.

Her lifetime of dedication was recognized with the R.O. Arnold Award in 2008, honoring her outstanding service to Newton County. Mrs. Needham will be remembered for her intelligence, generosity, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Edward R. Needham; son, Edward W. Needham; parents, Charles and Stella Dudley; and sisters, Katherine Potts, Stella Daniels, Charlene Dudley, and Bertha Dudley.

Survivors include her daughter, Kathy Rhoades (Robert); son, Bryan Needham; grandchildren, Seth Hall (Sammy), Judson Rhoades, Krissy Rhoades, Katy Rhoades, Charlie Needham (Danielle), Rachael Cope (Tyler); great-grandchildren, Ahvaeah Rhoades, Camia Rhoades, Aaliyah Alvis, Dorothy Needham, Charlotte Needham, Edda Needham.

A Funeral Service for Mrs. Needham will be held Thursday, July 17, 2025, 2:00 P.M., Covington First United Methodist Church, 113 Conyers Street SW, in Covington, with Rev. Jan McCoy officiating and interment following in Covington City Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family Wednesday, July 16, from 6:00 - 8:00 P.M., at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington.