Neville remembered by co-workers

Joya Neville, 60, of Grant, who passed away on March 16 as the result of an auto accident, is remembered by co-workers as a calm, caring woman and great mother and grandmother who always greeted everyone with her smile. 

Joya worked at Country Supply in Grant for approximately five years. Owner Charlene Faber said while Joya was an exceptional employee, she was a true friend, and Faber feels very lucky that Joya walked into her life.

“She always had a smile and kind words for her customers. Joya’s kindness was shown in many quiet ways and she touched many lives,” said Faber.

Joya had been working at Western States Bank for the past two years. 

Her co-worker Robin White said Joya was their steady rock, always pleasant, calm and easy to be around. 

She said Joya was a great mom to her four children, and it was evident they loved her very much. 

“My favorite times with her were when we would tease her about anything, she would just laugh and give the teasing back as good as she got it. I am so glad I got to be a part of her life and man, do I miss her. 

“I know she touched many lives in Grant and from talking to her children, she touched people’s lives everywhere she went. What a legacy,” said White.

Deb Richardson, who also worked with Joya at Western States Bank, said Joya always met and greeted people with a smile, always had a kind word and loved when children came to the bank, always making sure they left with a lollipop.  

“She was so generous, a real giving heart,” Richardson said.

Richardson admired her as a mom and grandma, saying she did a wonderful job raising her family.

“She was a quiet person, yet was fun to tease and then watch her eyes light up with a witty comeback,” she said. 

A memorial service for Joya was held in St. Francis, Kansas on Thursday, March 22.

Accident details

According to the accident report from the Nebraska State Patrol, Neville was travelling north bound on Highway 61 in a silver Ford Taurus when she lost control due to ice and snow. Her vehicle was struck at mile marker 80 by a southbound black Chevrolet pickup driven by Calin Cranmore of Julesburg, Colorado. 

Neville died at the scene and Cranmore was transported to Ogallala Community Hospital and released with no injuries.  

Seatbelts were in use by both drivers.