Virginia Elizabeth Nealy

On June 19, 1922, Mary Catherine Page was born to Jesse James Page and Clara Louella Rauckman Page in Salem, Illinois. Six brothers were there to welcome a baby sister into the world. Her brother Russell was working in the state of Virginia at the time. Upon learning that he finally had a sister, he asked if he could name her himself, thus Mary Catherine became Virginia Elizabeth.

Growing up in the depression years, Mama learned to amuse herself with the simple offerings of a small town. Playing in the orchards, by the streams, going to matinees and always surrounded by music. This background led to the development of a voracious appetite for learning and membership in the National Honor Society.

In the fall of 1937, Wilton Purnell Nealy hopped a freight train to southern Illinois — in search of work In the booming oilfields. He found work and also Mama. In love, they ran off to Bowling Green, Kentucky, and were married on March 31, 1938.

To this union four children were born. Welton Douglas, John Malcolm, Russell Paige and Christine Beth. Mama's life was full of cooking, cleaning, raising and hauling kids around, church and the ever present sounds of music. She raised her family the best that she could, using the tools of life that she had at hand. She did just fine.

Mama was preceded in death by her husband Wilton Purnell; son Welton Douglas and granddaughter LaDonna Marie. She is survived by sons, John, Paige (Anne) and daughter Christine.

Also surviving, daughter-in-law, Sandra Cates Nealy; grandchildren, Matthew, Brett, Eslie Joanne, Nadia Marie, Christopher and William. Plus numerous nephews and nieces.

On July 20, 2014, after listening to some of her favorite hymns and a visit with the hospice Chaplin, Mama took her last earthly breath and has gone on to new beginnings.

A very special thank you to Dr. Laura Shelton, Hospice of Missoula, Case Management Caregivers and most of all, Lerma. The best friend and caregiver that one could have. Some absolutely incredible people have graced our doors and hearts and the family is eternally grateful.

Per Mama's request, cremation has taken place at the Cremation and Burial Society of the Rockies. Private services will be held in Salem, Illinois, at a later date.

To end this story with a few of Mama's thoughts....Sing whenever you can, smile and let's think good thoughts
Read Virginia Nealy's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.