Mary Francis Neely

Mary Neely entered into eternal rest on May 16th, 2023, after a long battle with Breast Cancer. She passed peacefully in her longtime home in Monmouth, Oregon, surrounded by loving family.
Mary was born Mary Francis Evans, to parents Lela Nixon and Louie Evans in Carthage, Missouri on August 18th, 1927. She was primarily raised by her Grandma and Grandpa Moorehouse, on their small farm on the outskirts of Carthage. She attended and graduated from Alba Highschool in May of 1945.
After falling in love with the boy who recently moved to their small farming community, she married Wilford Trenton Neely on June 12th, 1945. They went on to start the beginning of a large, loving family. Their first two children, Willis and Rebecca, were born in Missouri in 1947 and 1949. After inspiration sparked by Mary’s stepfather being stationed at Camp Adair during World War 2, Wilford and Mary packed up their family and belongings, and moved to Monmouth, Oregon in 1950.
They immediately found joy and importance in lending a helping hand to their new community. Upon their arrival, Wilford was offered a job for the City of Monmouth. He eventually went on to manage and complete many important projects that have ultimately lead to the city’s vital infrastructure. After dedicating 25 years, he was forced to retire medically. During this time period, Mary worked several jobs dedicated to her community as well. She served the Central School District as a cook and a bus driver for many years. She also volunteered as a Sunday School teacher at the Monmouth First Baptist church, where her and Wilford were lifelong, dedicated members. During her many years spent at the church, you could find her active in many Women’s groups, quilting, delivering Meals on Wheels, and assembling Christmas gift boxes to be sent abroad to underprivileged children.
Not long after establishing residence in Monmouth, Wilford and Mary continued to expand their family. Another daughter, Marilyn, was born in 1952. In the following 10 years, they would go on to welcome three more sons, Jonathon, Louie and Matthew, in 1956, 1959 and 1962. Having a total of 6 children, 12 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren, the Neely family continues to grow to this day.
Wilford and Mary always valued the importance of family, love and making memories. In honor of this, they established several special traditions. One of their most treasured traditions was that of “Neely Annual Beach Week.” This consisted of a family reunion held at Beverly Beach State Park. Camping for sometimes up to 2 weeks at a time, the family would spend many cherished moments around the campfire, teaching the importance of wilderness safety, cooking for each other, playing on the beach, and hosting epic Phase 10 battles.
Mary lost her husband Wilford in 1993, but continued on as a loyal and loving matriarch to her family. She instilled the love of cooking and gardening into her grandchildren, who often spent many days playing in her beautiful yard and cooking alongside her in the kitchen. Many may also remember her as the “Lavender Lady”, as she was often dressed in her favorite shade, and grew many flowers in the vibrant color purple. Her granddaughters especially will remember the massive collection of Barbie dolls that lined her bedroom walls, her love of Precious Moments figurines, and her companionship with her cat, Chucky.
Mary lived an amazing 95 years of life and will be remembered fondly by many in our community. There will be a celebration of life and reception at the First Baptist church of Independence at 11:00 am on June 10th, 2023, followed by a graveside service at Fir Crest cemetery.