Verla Jean Neel

I just came across this obit, and am so sorry to hear of Mrs. Neel's passing. She has always been my favorite teacher, having had her in second grade. I will never forget when she took me out to lunch at the airport the year after being in her class, just so she could see how I was doing. She was incredibly kind and loving, and will still always be my favorite! Rest in Peace

Verla was part of the team that hired me in 1976. She was an inspiration to work with and was a wonderful mentor willing to share ideas and teaching techniques. Richard Moen

My sister and I grew up with the Neel Family. I remember visiting their home for meals on many occasions and they would join us at our home. As my father was a colleague and long time friend of theirs.... The original "Rat Pack" of Architectural founding fathers at Cal Poly SLO, when Quonset huts were the classrooms of the time. Verla was an exceptional chef and mother to their family and truly the nicest person I have had the joy of knowing. Having her in my life as a young child and teen...

I learned how to teach reading from Verla. She was a brilliant and loving woman- will not forget her!!

Rest in Heaven Verla. You made such a great contribution to the teaching community of SLCUSD. Besides the students who were privileged to learn with you, so we teachers did also. The in-services that you gave were always so encouraging and done with such kindness.

I worked on several jobs for husband Paul and also remodeled a Bathroom in Verla and Paul's home. Verlander was a verry gracious lady and Paul is the best and easiest person to work with. Would love to make contact with Paul, I lost my wife Nina in 2019 and am now loving in Indiana. My prayers for Paul, the boys and all their family. Jerry Swanson. 805 540 1759

Heartfelt condolences to her family. Verla was a wonderful teacher, mentor and person. She had a natural warmth that encouraged so many of her students and colleagues. She truly made a positive difference in the world.

I am sad to hear of Verla´s passing. She was a wonderful teacher and mentor to me as I began my teaching career at CL Smith in 1966. Dedicated, so lovely with the children, and giving of her knowledge, Verla´s expert guidance and welcoming spirit are indelible memories. Condolences to Paul and family. Carol Sinsheimer

Saddened to see that sweet Verla has passed away. I first met her when I began working for San Luis Coastal USD in 1985. She was a wonderful and very kind woman who was passionate about her work with the school district. She and Ted Wheeler began putting together the curriculum department when I began working for the district. And I missed both of them when they retired from the district. May her family find peace in knowing what an incredible woman others found her to be. Verla, you are...