Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 5, 2020 from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm at Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm at the funeral home with Rev. Jennifer Essary officiating. Burial will be in Graham Baptist Church Cemetery near Butlerville, IN on Friday, February 7, 2020 at 2:00pm.
Neva was born on December 21, 1931 in Madison, IN the daughter of Roy and Ivy Reece (nee Isaac) who preceded her in death. She was an Associate Professor of Psychology at Central Methodist University in Fayette, MO, from 1988-1997, and Adjunct Professor from 1997 until her retirement in 2012. She also served as the Campus Minister from 2007-2009 and then was the pastor at United Methodist in Keytesville, MO and Armstrong Methodist Church in Armstrong, MO.
Neva was a strong and tenacious teacher and Christian. She touched many lives throughout her life in the classroom and between her many community works. A talented performer and author, she was an example of living life bravely and with passion.
Survivors include her three children, Vernon Forbes (Marie) of Columbia, MO, Doug Forbes of Lincoln, NE and Leslie Forbes of Duluth, MN; one niece, Susie Reece and one nephew, Jeff Reece (Anita). She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Nolan Reece and Nathan Reece.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Graham Baptist Church, c/o Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West, Columbia, MO 65202.
