Mary Lou Neal

Mary Lou Neal, 84, of Brevard, NC passed away on Thursday August 5, 2021, a short 6 days after her husband George Neal had passed on.  Mary Lou was born in Montclair New Jersey on April 7, 1937 to the late Nicholas and Mary Graney.  As a child, Mary Lou enjoyed spending her seaside summers in Sea Girt NJ, where her parents owned a beach house.  She attended the Lacardaire Academy for her elementary education, Mount St Dominic Academy for High School and in 1955 received her bachelor’s degree from St Elizabeth University in Morristown, NJ.  After graduation Mary Lou embarked on a career in education; dedicating over 35 years of her life as an elementary school teacher, primarily in the Michigan public school system.  While working in Michigan she met George and in 1997 they married, thus starting their 44 year life together. Mary Lou and George retired and moved to Connestee Falls, Brevard NC in 2002.

Mary Lou was one of 4 children; being predeceased by her bothers Nick, Bob and Walter and survived by her sister-in-law Carole Graney. Mary Lou had no children of her own, however she is survived by 11 nieces and nephews; all of whom she loved and cared for as if they were her own.   Together with her late husband George they loved hosting dinners / parties, at which one would always hear Mary Lou’s infectious laugh. She always had a kind word for everyone and will be remembered for the passion she exhibited for all aspects of her life; particularly her love of animals and nature.  She was a true dog lover. Throughout her life she always had at least 1 dog (normally 2); and they were of course large dogs!  While living at Connestee Falls Mary Lou kept busy playing bridge, tennis with a small group of friends, reading and the book club.  In addition, she was an avid artist, and her oil paintings will be treasured by surviving members of her family.

No services are planned at this time. Mary Lou will be buried together with George in a private ceremony at St. Philip’s Episcopal Cemetery.