Alice McNeese, 77, of Oskaloosa, passed away at her home on Sunday, January 19, 2025.
Alice Fay, daughter of Lonie and Gracie (Collis) Saner, was born on May 8, 1947, in Gibson, Iowa. The family moved to Lovilla when she was young, and she attended school there through the 8th grade. Alice obtained her GED to complete her education. When Alice finished her schooling, she met a young man named Michael Lee McNeese, and the two quickly fell in love. They were married shortly after their meeting and were wed on December 12, 1967, in Oskaloosa. The couple was blessed with two daughters: Shelly and Sheila.
Alice worked for Oskaloosa Foods for almost 20 years before beginning to work for the Oskaloosa Schools in the food service department, where she retired after 15 years to help take care of her husband, Michael. She and Michael celebrated 45 years together before his death on January 13, 2012.
Alice enjoyed her Saturday night gambling trips, gardening, and was a NASCAR fan. Alice had a true talent for growing tomatoes, onions, and green beans and loved canning her tomatoes.
Left to cherish Alice’s memory are her daughters: Shelly (Tony) Thomas of Oskaloosa; Sheila Behymer of Oskaloosa; her grandchildren: Steven, Tristan, Brandy, and Shay; and many nieces and nephews.
Alice was preceded in death by the love of her life, Michael, her parents, and her siblings.
As was Alice’s wish, her body has been cremated, and the burial of ashes will take place during a private family service at Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa at a later date.
