Doris Eileen Neal

Doris Eileen Neal

March 24, 1930 - Jan. 13, 2014

TRYON, Nebraska -- Doris Eileen Neal, 83, formerly of Tyron, passed away Jan. 13, 2014, at Linden Court.

She was born March 24, 1930, in North Platte to Hugh and Louelva Connell Priest. Doris grew up in Hooker County on her parent's ranch. Doris lived her entire life in the Sandhills area, except for one year when at age four, her family lived in California. She attended a one-room school house in Hooker County.

She and LaVerne Neal were childhood friends and were united in marriage on July 11, 1946. LaVerne always lovingly refered to her as "Dot."

The couple lived south of Tryon, in Tryon and in Thomas County, where LaVerne worked for Chester Paxton.

In 1952, they moved to their own ranch, north of Tryon, which he purchased from his brother. The couple lived there until his death in 2008. Doris continued to live there until 2010, when her health no longer allowed it.

Doris was a wonderful cook. She made the best "butter horn" rolls and noodles! She could whip up a meal for unexpected guests in no time. She was also very musical, always singing. She rocked her children and grandchildren to sleep while singing her special little songs.

She was a long-time member of the Tryon Methodist Church and she and LaVerne were active members in the church for years.

She helped on the ranch while they raised their children. Doris enjoyed watching the cows and little calves.

Survivors include her children, Dave (Linda) Neal of York, Nebraska, Evelyn (Terry) Pettit of Culbertson, Nebraska, Steve (Sharon) Neal and Dallas (Judy) Neal, all of North Platte, Nebraska and Kirk (Barbara) Neal of Tryon; 18 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; one great-great- grandchild; sisters, Alice Bassett and Audrey French; sister-in-law, Phyllis Priest' and numerous nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 62 years; infant son, Derold Mark Neal; and brothers, Hermel and Kenneth Priest.

A memorial has been established in her name and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Services will be 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, 2014, at Tryon Methodist Church with Pastor Shanon Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Miller Cemetery. Visitation will be 9 a.m. until 9 pm. today at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home, which is in charge of arrangements.