Obituaries
Florence Magnuson Neely James (10-26-2009)
Florence Magnuson Neely James, 99, passed away on Friday October 23, 2009 in her home in Ruston, Louisiana. She was preceded in death by her husband Herbert C. Neely, her sisters Helen and Ruby, her second husband Floyd B. James and his daughter Rena Burkhalter. She is survived by her sister Marjorie Martin; daughter Carol Neely Casper and her companion Ken Bridges; step-children Ben James and his wife Margaret Ann, John Tom James and his wife Beverlee; grandchildren Mike Malmay, Laura Mellberg and her husband Neil; great-grandchildren Megan, Savannah, Makayla, Brooklynn and James. Florence was born October 9, 1910 in Kansas City, Missouri. Flo and Herb Neely moved to Ruston with their daughter Carol in 1948 and owned the local Western Auto store for 40 years.
At 60, Flo took up painting and pursued art. She enjoyed giving away her pieces to family and friends who now proudly display her talented works. She was an avid reader, an excellent golfer, a dedicated sports fan, an exceptional cook and an expert in etiquette.
After losing her first husband she was blessed to find love again, marrying Floyd B. James.
She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and an active member of the Magnolia Garden Club, Ruston Garden Club, Women’s Department Club, Cosmos Club, and the Ruth Circle. Her love of flowers led her to take classes at LA Tech in flower arranging and later became a certified judge and winner of many best of show awards at state level competitions.
Florence has been blessed by the abundance of friendship and love from the Ruston community. The family would like to thank all of Flo’s friends and neighbors who have given their support. A special consideration and appreciation is extended to her compassionate care-givers Jessie Wayne and Subrena Renee Harris who both held a unique bond and friendship with Florence.
A celebration of life service will be held Tuesday October 27, 2009 at 4 p.m. in the Burkhalter Chapel at Trinity United Methodist Church. Because of her love and dedication to the Lincoln Parish Museum, in lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution to this establishment would be greatly appreciated.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com
