MY DEAREST NEVA

Although my thought process is understandably somewhat out-of-order right now, sweetheart, I am nevertheless compelled to endeavor to express all that you have meant to me and our family.

We have each of us, and especially me, been blessed to have shared all of the moments with you these past 33 years. You have truly been an inspiration to each of us-guided us through tough times with your endearing, compassionate, sincere and loving touch. Everyone that has crossed your path, but especially me and our dear children and grandchildren, is better off from the experience of knowing and loving you. You truly left a remarkable imprint on each of us- and we thank you and love you for this lasting gift.

As Rev. Kent Millard expressed recently, you have left a profound legacy for each of us. In no small way the memory of your Hallmark personality-your gracious mannerisms, your loving nature, your desire to help everyone and anyone, your compassionate and friendly way, your sincere interest in each and every person, your completely honest and direct way of addressing all matters, even your light-hearted mannerisms- we trust will bouy our heavy hearts through this very stressful experience and in the years to follow.

I don’t believe that anyone could challenge the fact that you were the “glue” that kept all of your loved ones bonded. A unique attribute, when you consider the trials and tribulations of so many of today’s families. The children and I have been blessed by your example, your counsel, your guidance and your love. I think that this is the prime reason that our children have fared so well in this turbulent society. It appears that we did more that a few things right, my darling.

From the beginning I sincerely believe that we were right for each other. Thirty-three years later I believe it even more strongly. You were always my best friend, adviser, helpmate and lover. I cannot honestly remember a cross word or any unhappy moment. I think that very few marriages can claim this. I will miss you terribly, of course. Our talks everyday about all matter of things, the true compatibility, the coffee chats. The Beanie-Baby shopping, the special occasion celebrations (oh how you loved to decorate for the seasons!), the travel, the sports events, the malls, and the quiet moments when we sat and reflected on how good our life together has been.

I believe that we accomplished a wonderful "closure". And now, I say goodbye, my sweetheart, for a while. Thank you for being so special and so good to me and for me. You will always be in my memories. We are certain that God, with his infinite wisdom, knows well what a truly good and wonderful soul he has just received. We know, too, that your dear soul has now been reunited with your Dad and our other dear relatives in your heavenly home and that you'll have much to relate to them. Know that the children and grandchildren and I will take good care of each other and that we will cherish and live every day with the precious memories that you left for us.

I will miss you terribly, perhaps more than you could have ever known. You were the most wonderful, kind, compassionate, bravest and helpful person I ever knew; the perfect wife- truly the “Love of my Life”, and I thank you for all you gave me, with all of my heart! Till we meet again – I Love You.

Your Devoted Husband, Herbie

(This is excerpts from an open letter, "Reflections from a Devoted Husband's Heart", read by daughter-in-law Shannon Thompson at Neva's Memorial Service at St.Lukes United Methodist Church, November 29, 1999)

Interests
Neva enjoyed travel, family activities, sports, reading, sewing, crafts, music, Indianapolis Colts and Pacers games.
Community Activities
She was a member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, a Sunday School Teacher, and Chairman of Operating Friendship Program and North Central High School Sports Volunteer. Past President of Indianapolis Chapter of Women’s Architectural League (Architect’s Wives). Girl Scouts of America – Leader 6 years; Boy Scouts – Cub Scout Leader 3 years.