RICE, March 2 – Beatrice Newman Stoner, 87, of Rice, died Monday, March 1, 2004 at her home.

She was born September 20, 1916 in Danville, a daughter of the late Annie and Nathan Newman. She was raised by her mother's sister. Aunt Mamie, who became her stepmother. Her mother died when Bea was two.

Mrs. Stoner was the first southern woman accepted by the University of Rochester, receiving her degree in 1938. She studied at Johns Hopkins University, becoming a medical technologist. She worked for Johns Hopkins and it was there she met and wed Dr. David Stoner of New London, CT. After the war, and one cold winter in New London, the young couple and first child returned to Danville, where they lived and raised their children.

She was an active member of The League of Women Voters, serving in several leadership positions. Along with her husband, she was an active crusader for equal rights for all citizens, and was intimately involved with the civil rights struggles in the south during the '50's and '60's. She and her husband were avid bridge players and both were Life Masters in the American Contract Bridge League. They were members of the Temple Beth Shalom In Danville.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Stoner of Atlanta, GA, Dr. Kenneth Stoner of Richmond and Richard Stoner of Rice; a brother, Alvin Newman of Danville and a sister, Kathryn Newman of San Francisco, CA.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Friday at Temple Beth Shalom with interment in Aetz Chayim Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Temple Beth Shalom, Southern Avenue, Danville, VA or Habitat for Humanity.

Townes Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.