Joyce Ann Neely, 76, Beloved Mother and Riverview Community Member, Dies

Joyce Ann Vest Neely, a cherished mother and active community member, died peacefully on August 15, 2026. She was 76.

Known affectionately as "Joy," Mrs. Neely was reunited with her husband of 56 years, Billy Denzel Neely. She also joins her infant daughter Andrea Lynette, her mother Lucinda Upton, and her sister Ruth Farley.

Mrs. Neely, a longtime resident of Riverview, was born November 21, 1949, in Jumping Branch, West Virginia. She was the fifth of six children born to Moody and Lucinda Vest.

Growing up in southern West Virginia, she learned the value of hard work through farm chores. She often recalled bringing cows down from the mountain for milking, hoeing crops, and carrying cinder blocks to help build her mother's home on Vest Mountain. Her upbringing instilled a deep appreciation for nature that later bloomed in her vibrant gardens.

Mrs. Neely was spirited and active in school and community activities. She participated in 4-H, attended summer camps and became a West Virginia 4-H All Star for her leadership and service. She was a cheerleader, played basketball and helped create high school homecoming floats.

Her love for nature began in childhood, spending hours by a creek near her home. This passion continued throughout her life as an avid gardener with extensive knowledge of flowers and plants, a hobby she shared with many neighbors along the Alafia River.

Joyce Ann married Billy Denzel Neely on August 26, 1967, at Bluestone Baptist Church in Jumping Branch, WV. Early in their marriage, the couple lived in Raleigh, North Carolina, while Mr. Neely completed his doctoral studies at NC State University. Mrs. Neely worked at Winn-Dixie and enjoyed ceramics, bowling, tennis, and bike riding.

The couple welcomed their daughter, Stephanie, in 1971. In December 1973, they experienced the loss of their infant daughter, Andrea Lynette.

The family settled in Newport News, Virginia, in 1975, where they later welcomed their son, Jeffrey. Mrs. Neely dedicated much of her life to her family as a homemaker. She was active at Tabernacle Baptist Church, teaching mission studies, preparing church meals, and volunteering in her children's schools.

Even after moving to Riverview, she remained dedicated to her faith and community involvement, often seen at local events and volunteering her time.