1926-2026
Betty Lou (Minnich) Neese, 99, of Ringgold, a beloved mother, grandmother, and woman of unwavering faith, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2026, at the Jefferson Manor.
She was born in McWilliams, Armstrong County on December 30, 1926, a daughter of the late Clyde Minnich and Lorena (Brocious) Minnich.
On June 30, 1947, she married Ira Gerald “Jim” Neese. He preceded her in death on December 25, 2008.
Her faith was the foundation of her life. She was a longtime and devoted member of the Nazarene Church in Hawthorne, Pennsylvania, where her faith and fellowship were an important part of her life. Later, she found a church home at the United Methodist Church in Ringgold, where she continued to worship, serve, and grow in her relationship with God. Her faith, kindness, and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her.
Betty is survived by the lights of her life, her two sons, Richard (Dick) and wife Joyce and James “Nim” and wife Diane; five grandchildren Tracy Neese (Kevin Boddorf), Jennifer Neal (Doug), Marty Neese (Alyssa), Krysta Hallman (Brian), Bret Neese (Jennifer). 13 great grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren.
Proceeded in death by husband, Gerald (Jim) Neese. Along with four sisters, Myrna Brocious (Clarence), Vera Fisher (Frank), Pearl (Ellis) Snyder, Esther Schupp (William); and four brothers, Ray Minnich (Margret Engle); Carl Minnich (Mable Snyder); Willis Minnich (Geraldine Neese); Howard Minnich (Evelyn Snyder).
She had a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. She was very competitive when playing cards and games with family and friends. She loved spending time outdoors gardening, watching and listening to her birds, and enjoying the beauty of nature. She also loved to golf and go bowling, she enjoyed the time, companionship, and memories that came with it.
She was known as Grandma Betty to everyone that knew her. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished. Her family is grateful for the beautiful life she lived and for the blessing of having called her Wife, Mom and Grandma.
Friends will be received from 10 a.m. until noon on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Ringgold Methodist Church. A funeral service will be held at noon at the church, co-officiated by Pastor’s Ronnie Cox and Paul Houseworth.
Interment will follow at St. James Lutheran Church, Ringgold.
Memorial donations may be made in Betty’s memory to St. James Lutheran Cemetery, c/o Diane Neese, 388 Saint James Road, Mayport, PA 16240.
