Obituary: Nell Neville

Nell Neville was a nature lover, enthusiastic hiker, avid reader, talented artist, serious tennis fan, astute business woman and much loved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.

At 91, Nell had seen more than her share of life. She was born in Wichita Falls, Texas, the oldest of three children. Her father was a love of the outdoors, from whom Nell was first introduced to camping, fishing and the beauty of nature.

At age 14, she moved to Hollywood, Calif., where she attended Hollywood High School, graduated and attended L.A. City College. Studying business paid off later in life as she acquired and managed real estate rentals.

A far cry from an early ambition of becoming a cowboy; Nell married and raised two children in the suburbs of Los Angeles. Her love of the outdoors and nature, however, drew her to Prescott, Ariz., in the 1970s, where she lived until 2004.

In Prescott, Nell thrived among the beautiful pines. These were some of her best years. She traveled extensively around the world, but loved the southwest, hiking the Grand Canyon, and sleeping under the stars in Canyon De Chelly. She also took classes at Yavapai College, and began making silver and turquoise jewelry. She created beautiful stained glass and became involved with other artists in Prescott. Her love of art was shared with the Prescott schools, as an art docent.

Nell herself was a continuous student and seeker, and now that she has passed from this world, join in a fitting Native American Prayer found among one of her personal journals: Do not stand at my grave and week; I am not there, I do not sleep; I am a thousand winds that blow; I am a diamond glint of snow; I am sunlight on ripe grain; I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning hush; I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight; I am the stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there, I did not die.

Nell is survived by her daughter, Kathy Krehbiel; her son, James Neville; sister, Mary Jo DeGaetano; grandchildren, Isaish Press, Alexis Press, Anthony Press; and many nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her so much.

(Information provided by survivors.)


Donate Report a Typo Contact
Most Read