Anne Barilovits Neumyer

Her parents came to America from Hungary for a better life for themselves and future family. Anne’s parents instilled strong work ethics, a deep faith and care and compassion for others.

Anne grew up on a farm where she would help tend to the strawberry and pepper crops as well as poultry. She enjoyed her mom’s flowering plants, only to have a wide variety of plants and flowers at her own home. This love of plants is exhibited in each of her children’s homes.

Anne graduated from Kathleen High School and attended St. Vincent’s School of Nursing in Jacksonville, Florida. Upon returning home she worked at the Simpson Gessler Clinic as a Registered Nurse assisting Dr. N.J. Griffith. Over the 10 years as a nurse, she helped with the treatment of many people and developed strong bonds within the community. Her dedication to the health care system extended beyond the normal working hours, as care was often provided after hours via the “back door,” as no person in need was ever turned away from treatment. Anne was well loved by the patients and as a result, upon the announcement of her engagement, a patient provided Easter lilies for her wedding.

Ed and Anne were the very first dual Catholic Couple to get married in the newly built St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Winter Haven. When her first son was born, Anne retired from nursing to focus on the needs of her growing family and assist her sister Julia with care of her aging parents. When taking the children to school, she learned of the need for a crossing guard, applied and started working. She would help with the school’s needs, be closer to her children to assist in the classroom, and work alongside her husband as he was employed at the school. When Anne’s children were of working age, she applied for a hostess job at the local grocery store and worked alongside her 3 children. Mom enjoyed being near her children and the opportunity to socialize with the public. Little did she know many former patients from the clinic would frequent the store and would recognize her! It was a “mini reunion” from the Gessler Clinic as they all stopped to visit Anne.

Anne instilled good values and led by example within her family. The family always attended mass together and the importance of prayer was taught and encouraged. Mom would often state that problems should be placed in God’s hands! She told the story of her parents moving from Pennsylvania to Florida. Upon arrival in Florida, Anne’s family lived with the Nemeth’s, established a farm for income and built their family home. When she questioned her father of the uncertainty of the move, he replied, “I pray every day,” “Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread.”

Anne loved being a homemaker and was an excellent seamstress. Mom made many items for the home and at times she would make a new shirt for school by morning, make a vest for a teddy bear or dress for a doll.

Family time together was important, so mom constantly searched for new recipes for the family meals. She provided well balanced home cooked meals every night, baked breads, pies and cookies. During mealtimes, the daily events were discussed or other topics of importance to our family. On holidays or special events, she would exhibit her talents/decorating skills as she made various cakes decorated on the likes of everyone in the family, but one of her specialties was her Hungarian strudel! Long hours were spent in the kitchen making this special dessert for her family.

In addition, mom made the best tea! Childhood friends have returned as adults with their children for a glass of her refreshing sweet sun tea.

Mom had the most caring heart as she shared many meals, baked goods and flowers/greenery from her yard with others. Childhood friends were always welcomed and often joined the family at mealtimes as a plate was always provided for the extra “son” or “daughter.” A variety of baked goods were always made for her family along with extras to share with neighbors, especially during the holiday season. She loved plants often would share cuttings or cut flowers/ greenery for special events or just give her favorite camelias to brighten someone’s day!

Anne was married to Ed for 63 years and they always did things together. They were a TEAM that worked very hard, believed in family values and loved each other deeply!

In the past few weeks as mom’s health declined, she appreciated being cared for in the home she and dad built together, more importantly she was happy to be with her family. Friends have sent texts, offered prayers and have called to speak directly with Mom. Mom appreciated every prayer and words of encouragement! Mom stated, “We are fortunate to have wonderful friends!”

Mom will always hold a special place in our hearts and because of her we are better people. Although we are deeply saddened by her passing, our faith gives us the comfort that she is with her loving husband Ed Neumyer.

Anne Barilovits Neumyer is preceded in death by her late husband Ed Neumyer (August 5, 2023) and leaves her son, Charles Neumyer (Tina) Colorado, Ben Neumyer (Susan) Florida , Beth Wiles (Pat) Florida.