Lois Forte

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Lois Hammonds Forte (85) of Newberry Florida, a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many, who departed this Earthly life on June 13, 2026. Lois built a life full of love, hope and laughter and was a dedicated public servant for 22 years as a commissioner for the City of Newberry, Florida.

Lois was born December 10, 1940 in Chadbourn, NC to parents Eddie Graham Hammonds and Vernie Mae Strickland Hammonds who predeceased her in addition to her husband James Randall Forte, and three sisters Kathleen Hammonds Norton, Gladys Hammonds and Elena Dos Santos.

Lois is survived by her son Stephen F. Hammonds (Fl), Sandra Hammonds Marin (Bryan, TX), and Sophia Helt (Scott) (Hernando, FL). Nine (9) grandchildren, Thirteen (13) great-grandchildren, and sisters Helen Hawkins (NC), Judy Williams (NJ) and one brother Eddie Graham Hammonds Jr. (NC).

Lois’ heart and passion was to serve the senior citizens and children of Newberry and was a staunch advocate and champion to create a place for children to play which resulted in a park in Newberry named after her (Lois Forte Park). She was honored and happy to see this come to fruition.

Celebration of life and homecoming services will be held on Saturday June 20, 2026 at Milam Celebration Center (Newberry location) at 12:00pm (visitation) and funeral at 1:00 pm. Internment location City of Newberry Cemetery.