Joan V. Neff

Neff, Joan V., of Orlando, passed away at home on February 14, 2011. She was born April 28, 1938 in New York City, NY to Rudolph and Florence Riedel. She knew Christ as her Lord and Savior and was a member of Maranatha Fellowship Church (Orlando) and Franklin First Alliance (Franklin, NC). A few years after graduating from William Cullen Bryant High School in 1955, she met a young Marine, Cpl. Elmo Neff, and married on February 7, 1959. She spent years working for Home Interiors and Ambassador Insurance and enjoyed painting as a hobby. Joan is preceded in death by her parents; her two sons Kevin and Greg Neff; and her sister Arlene Palis. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Elmo Neff ; daughter Kimberly Neff-Sydebrant; daughters-in-law Tammy and Jeanne Neff; sister Doris Armstrong McGahy (Bill) and brother Robert Riedel; grandchildren Katie (David) Cutchin, Chelsea Neff, Victoria Sydebrant, Quentin, Philip and Benjamin Neff; all of Orlando. Her extended family includes in-laws, nieces and nephews, as well as numerous friends across the nation. Mom fought her battle with pancreatic cancer with strength, courage and wisdom provided by Him. She knew there was a miracle to be realized through her illness, even if that miracle was that she'd be with Christ, where the ultimate healing would be. Mom prayed with and witnessed to many people during her illness, telling all of her peace that "passeth all understanding". Visitation will be held on Friday, February 18, 2011 from 4-8pm at Newcomer Funeral Home, Orlando. Service will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 10:00am at Downey Memorial Church. Donations to Gideons International, Hospice of the Comforter or PANCAN are welcomed and appreciated in lieu of flowers.