Elizabeth Ann Neumann

1932 - 2025

Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Neumann, 93, of Chesapeake, Virginia passed away peacefully on Friday December 19, 2025.  Born September 27, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, Betty was the daughter of the late Walter Theodore Slicker and Agnes Josephine Slicker.  

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, LeRoy Edwin Neumann, Jr.; and their children Kathy Marie Faykes and Paul Jeffrey Neumann, Sr.; her parents; and brothers Maynard (Helene) Slicker and Theodore Slicker.

She is survived by her children Kurt (Natalia) Neumann and Kris (Walter) Rushing; her son-in-law Maj. Gen.(ret) Frank (Byllie Ann) Faykes; her daughter-in-law Nancy (Ken) Stone; her brother Jerome (Dawn) Slicker; her five cherished grandchildren, Paul Jeffrey (Ashley) Neumann Jr., Elizabeth (Alan) Gemmill, Michael (Michelle) Rushing, Tiffany (Zach) Hallett, Maxim (Taylor) Neumann.  She also leaves behind seven adored great-grandchildren: Nathan and Sarah Rushing, Evan Gemmill, Conor and Scarlett Hallett, Elliot and Harlan Neumann, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.  

Betty spent her early years in Chicago alongside her three brothers.  She graduated from Leyden High School in Franklin Park, IL where she met her future husband at a community dance.  Shortly after marrying the love of her life in 1951, she embraced the role of a military wife when Roy joined the United States Army as a military police officer.  As a new bride and young mother, Betty held the homefront together while Roy served in Frankfurt Germany during the Korean War.   

Roy’s career with General Electric eventually brought the Neumann family from Illinois to Portsmouth, VA in 1966. After dedicating herself to raising four children, Betty began a successful career in banking with Central Fidelity Bank, where she worked for 22 years before retiring.

In retirement, Betty and Roy enjoyed traveling extensively. They shared many cruises with family and friends and visited destinations including New England, Hawaii, Atlantic City, Las Vegas, Florida, and every place where Kathy and Frank were stationed. Betty loved playing bridge and was an active member of several bridge groups throughout the years. She also made sure that everyone in the family learned how to play her favorite card game, Liverpool Rummy.

Betty took great pride in her home and garden. Gardening was her passion, and even at ages 89 and 90, she could be found outside pulling weeds and watering flowers, always ensuring her home was beautiful and welcoming.

Her faith guided every aspect of her life. Betty was a charter member of The Church of the Resurrection beginning in 1971 and faithfully served in many ministries over the years. She generously shared her professional talents by serving with the church’s treasury team for many years.

Above all else, Betty treasured her family. She was the glue that held everyone together with her kindness, laughter, and unwavering love. She forgave easily, never judged, and liked to enjoy a good glass of sweet wine. Classy, graceful, and even-tempered, she was truly a remarkable woman. Betty found immense joy in spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and had a deep love for Christmas, which she celebrated with warmth and joy, creating cherished memories year after year.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 5, at The Church of the Resurrection, 3501 Cedar Ln.  The family will receive friends at the church prior, starting 10:15 a.m.  A reception will follow the Mass in the church fellowship hall.

Interment will take place 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 16, at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemtery in Suffolk.

Pallbearers will be Betty’s grandsons: Paul J. Neumann Jr., Michael A. Rushing, and Maxim S. Neumann.  

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the funeral ministry at The Church of the Resurrection, and a very special thank you to Betty’s devoted caregivers, Beth Berry and Sheree Johnson. Because of their loving support and constant care, Betty was able to remain in the home she cherished, making her final days fuller and more peaceful.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either The Church of the Resurrection Building Fund or Portsmouth OASIS Social Ministry. Condolences may be sent to BWFosterFuneralHome.com.

“We only have this moment.  Yesterday is gone, tomorrow may never come, so enjoy this moment you have.” - Monsignor Thomas Caroluzza;  Founding Pastor, The Church of the Resurrection