Bernice A. Neeley

Bernice Anastasia Neeley, 91, of Galesburg, died at 6:51 p.m. Monday, October 29, 2018 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg. Bernice was born June 3, 1927, in Galesburg, the daughter of Peter and Antonina (Melé) Calderone. Bernice married Warren Blake Neeley on December 8, 1962, in Galesburg. He preceded her in death on September 25, 2012. Bernice is survived by one son, Mickey (Karen) Davison of Knoxville, TN; three daughters, Janet (John) Woods of Trinidad, CO, Shelley (Gary) Kiel of Omaha, NE, and Karen (Dennis) Mills of East Peoria; eight grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Dorothy and Lorene Calderone, both of Galesburg. Along with her husband Blake, Bernice was preceded in death by her four brothers and one sister, Peter, Charlie, Phil, Domenic, and Loretta Calderone. Bernice was co-owner of Club 19 in Galesburg, working alongside her brothers for many years. Blake and she were long time members of Soangetaha Country Club and Fox Fire Country Club in Naples, FL, where they spent their winters. Bernice previously enjoyed volunteering with Prairie Players Civic Theatre where she participated in several productions. She was also a dedicated member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. Bernice was an avid golfer and bridge player, especially duplicate bridge. She enjoyed studying her ancestry, and was a member of CLIO Study Club and PEO Chapter HO. More than anything, Bernice and Blake enjoyed entertaining family and friends in their home. Cremation rites will be accorded. Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, November 2, 2018 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral services will begin 10 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. Bernice will be buried alongside her beloved husband at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to the Costa Scholarship Fund.