Elsie Inez (Midge) Neal

Elsie Inez (Midge) Neal, age 87, of Springboro, OH peacefully passed from this life on August 22, 2025.

Midge was preceded in death by her loving husband, Buford Neal and her son-in-law, David Dillon.

She is survived by her children, Buford Glenn Neal, and Roselynn Gaye Dillon, and her favorite grand-dog, Kimmie. Also, surviving are step-grandsons Brad Knee and Chip Lane Knee (Erica), and step great-grandchildren Jocelyn and Anderson Knee, and Sarah Sutton.

Midge was born the seventh of ten children on March 15, 1938, to Harry and Ethel Richardson, in Ravenna, Kentucky. As a baby, she was given care and affection by her oldest sister, Norma, and then as a youngster, she was inseparable from her sisters, Angela and Mary. Midge grew up a Kentucky girl in a hard-working family with brothers, sisters, and friends all around, she was driven and energetic, with a smile and kindness for anyone she met. Known for her blond curls, she carried wonderful spark and spirit in her daily life.

Midge was a singing piano player, starting when she was young, and performing with her sisters at church, and even forming the Richardson Sisters gospel group in the 1980’s. They performed regionally, recorded in Nashville, and spread the word for many years.

Midge and Buford found love and began their family life in the Dayton area, settling into their new home in Springboro. Midge was a loving homemaker while Buford worked for Delco. Midge was a caring mother to Glenn and Gaye, and supported Buford’s fishing success in the kitchen. She made days better for others whenever she could.

Midge hosted the family for fresh-caught fish parties, with all the garden trimmings. Green beans, tomatoes, sweet corn, and watermelon. Midge was also known for her holiday candy treats and cookies. No Christmas party was without her hot cinnamon hard candy, Buckeyes, and the famous peanut butter roll.

Midge’s hard work made great memories for the whole family and they appreciated her for it.

Midge began a 38-year career as a school bus driver for Centerville Schools. She was a caregiver to the children she safely transported and actually saved a child’s life and was recognized for it. She had a big impact on many kids and their families throughout the years.

Midge had special relationships with her dogs through the years, Pepe and Bear Boy. She also truly loved her grand-dog, Kimmie.

Midge wanted for her family to be loving and close, and to remember all the loving good times.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 3:00PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3940 Kettering Blvd, Kettering, OH 45439. Family and friends may visit from 2:00PM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to any hospice facility of choice in memory of Midge. She will be laid to rest at Sunset Cemetery in Irvine, Kentucky.