Bertha Louise Barbee McNeal

I was one of her students at Milwood Middle school, I remember her fostering my love of Motown.

I used to and still watch the velvelettes via YouTube and Bertha Barbee(I've always pronounced her name as the true "Birth of Barbee") because she was so beautiful. I wasn't born until '79 but there was something about her that was fantastic... especially her smile. Watching her made me smile and I thank her so much

Your Legacy of Love and Passion for music and teaching lives on in each person who has the pleasure of hearing you sing. You made a difference in our lives. Thank you for following your dreams and showing us ladies how to move and groove with respect and love. Elegantly Timeless, Compassionate and Commanding. You will be remembered and missed. Rest Easy In Paradise

Condolences to the family of a life well lived by a wonderful creative Queen!

I'M SADDEN TO SEE MY OLD CHOIR TEACHER HAS PASSED ON. I HAD THE GREAT HONOR OF HAVING HER AS MY MUSIC TEACHER AT MILLWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL IN 1993, BUT I KNOW TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY MEANS TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD. MRS. BARBEE WAS A BEAUTIFUL PERSON INSIDE AND OUT AND SHE WILL SURELY BE MISSED. GOOD HAD REGAINED ONE OF HIS ANGELS THANK YOU MRS. BARBEE FOR BEING A BEAUTIFUL LIGHT IN THIS WORLD. MY CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF MRS. BARBEE IN YOUR TIME OF BEREAVEMENT, CANDACE CHAMBERLAIN

Just seeing this mrs.mcneal taught at milwood when I was there she was one of the sweetest and genuine souls I can remember rest in paradise queen

Bertha was such a joy to know! A very precious soul! She will be dearly missed, but know she’s in Heaven with Jesus. Got to know her through our Kalamazoo Area Music Teachers Association.

Today I attended a beautiful memorial service for Bertha McNeal, a wonderful soul that I had the privilege of teaching with at Milwood Middle School. It was truly one of the loveliest services that I have been to in my entire life. Every eloquent speaker definitely captured the essence of Bertha, a kind, caring, giving and talented woman. Well done Melva and Marty, your Mom would have approved.

I have many memories to share. Mrs McNeal I loved her. Her children are my close love. We grew up side by side in the townhouses of New Horizon Village. We heard that piano play every day for 15 years. We will be missed by so many