Mary Elizabeth Wolfenbarger Neely

1920 - 2008

On Tuesday, September 23, 2008, this world lost a dearly beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and teacher, but Heaven gained another angel to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Mary Elizabeth Wolfenbarger Neely, 88, was born on September 12, 1920, in Exeter, Va. She retired from the Virginia Education system after teaching English for 39 years and was a current member of the Retired Teachers' Association. Mary was also a member of Green Ridge Baptist Church for 39 years, where she taught the adult women's Sunday School class and was a member of the Young-At-Heart. She was predeceased by a sister, Margaret W. Coley; and a brother, Robert S. Wolfenbarger. Her surviving family who will greatly miss her faith, wisdom, and guidance include a son, Robert A. Neely and wife, Peggy; daughter, Margaret N. Salyers; a sister, Rachel G. Wolfenbarger; grandchildren, Sandra Manetta, Mary G. Reed and husband, Bryan, Rachel Salyers, Daniel A. Neely and wife, Julie, and Matthew A. Neely and wife, Amy; sister-in-law, Irene B. Wolfenbarger; nine greatgrandchildren; two nephews and one niece. The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2008, at Lotz Funeral Home in Salem. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2008, 2 p.m. at Sherwood Memorial Park with the Rev. Greg Moser officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Second Harvest Food Bank, The Salvation Army, or Rescue Mission. Arrangements are being handled by Lotz Funeral Home, Salem.