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Melva Ann Neal finished her race on May 26, 2009.
Melva Ann Shelly was born in Abbott, Arkansas on December 22, 1916 to J.E. Shelly and Rose Wedge Shelly. She married Ridley Neal in 1934, and they were married for 63 years before his death in January, 1998. During the depression, in 1943, Mr. and Mrs. Neal moved with their family of four children to Southern California. They immediately found work in the date industry, and shortly after were asked to manage a date and citrus ranch owned by Leonhardt Swingle. Melva worked alongside her husband and children for the next 29 years, caring for, picking and selling grapefruit, oranges, tangerines and dates. During this time, their last five children were born. Mr. and Mrs. Neal retired in 1974, returning "home" to live in Cameron, Oklahoma.
Mrs. Neal is survived by:
her nine children and their spouses:
Nora and Jim Cross of Ft. Smith, Arkansas
Reece and Beth Neal of Newberry Springs, California
Zelma and David Moore of Bermuda Dunes, California
Donald and Karen Neal of Wister, Oklahoma
Larry and Ruth Neal of Ft. Collins, Colorado
Laurel and Joyce Neal of Pocola, Oklahoma
Marilyn and Stephen Harris of Van Buren, Arkansas
Linda and John Casey of Arlington, Texas
Ray and Beth Neal of Santa Maria, California
21 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and 12 great great grandchildren
All of whom love her very much
Melva's family and friends will miss her, but have many memories of this strong, caring, generous and very funny lady. They will celebrate her life by retelling her stories for years. |
