Constance D. Neely

NEELY, Mrs. Constance “Connie” Diane – age 74 of Flint, MI departed to be with the Lord in Heaven Sunday, September 25, 2016. Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2016 from 10AM-1PM at the church. Funeral Services will begin at 1PM at Bethel United Methodist Church – 1309 N. Ballenger Hwy. Flint, MI. Rev. Faith Timmons officiating. Burial will take place at Flint Memorial Park. Born June 2, 1942 in Flint, Michigan, Mrs. Constance Diane Johnson Neely, known by her friends and family as Connie was the daughter of Mrs. Lena B. Jones Johnson Starr and Mr. John Johnson who preceded her in death as well as loving step father Mr. James Starr. Constance was a warrior of life and loved the Lord until her last day on September 25, 2016. Constance received her early education in Flint Public Schools and graduated from Southwestern High School and later attended Baker College where she obtained her degree as a Stenographer. Her career began at General Motors (GM) where she served as the first Black secretary. This was celebrated in Who’s Who in America. Constance career continued with The Genesee County Probate Court for 30 years retiring as a Court Reporter. After retirement of 2 years, she worked at The Greater Flint Council of Churches where she served as an Executive Secretary for 5 years. Constance met and married Wilbert Roger Neely. Their nuptials began at St. Michael’s Catholic Church and later at Bethel United Methodist Church. Constance recently celebrated her 54th wedding anniversary with her loving husband on August 18, 2016. As a parent, she and husband shared their love with Desmond Neely (deceased); Valerie Neely Adams (and son-in-law Darryl Adams); Michael R. Neely and Kirsten R. Neely (deceased). Always honoring other family who have passed with photos in her home, on their birthdays and even on Facebook, the following individuals also preceded her in death: her belated grandmother, Mrs. Ida Burton Jones; her belated Aunt Ida E. Jones Gatewood and Robert “Uncle Bob” Gatewood and their son Robert “Cousin Davey” Gatewood; her loving Mother-In-Law and Father-In-Law, Mrs. Ruth Neely and Mr. Michael Neely. Constance dearly loved her family and will be cherished by her beloved husband; her daughter; her son; her only sister Stephanie Starr and nieces Tia Starr; Roya Starr-Irving and Shanna Starr-Irving who all reside in California. She was the most loving grandmother to her daughter’s children, Valencia Diane Walker and Monroe Nelson Walker (Angel) and her most loving cousin, Gay-linn E. Gatewood-Jasho of College Park, Georgia. She was also an Aunt and Great Aunt to the Neely and Waller Families; a Niece and Cousin to the Jones and Johnson Families which she loved dearly and In-Law of the Walker and Brooks Families and host of other relatives and friends. The family of Mrs. Constance D. Neely extends our appreciation for the many acts of kindness. Your kindness touched our hearts, while your witness surrounded us and lifted our spirits. The outpouring expressions of love and concern have touched our hearts and lifted our spirits. Each unique expression of love and concern brought us comfort. Special gratitude to The Heartland Hospice Program and their loving staff, and McLaren Hospital and their loving staff. We are reminded us that you mourn and rejoice with us for Constance has now reunited with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Those desiring may make contributions to Heartland Hospice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reiglefuneralhome.com.