Neva Jane Sharp

She was born in Mackinaw, Illinois to Edgar and Rebecca (Goodwin) Hackney on August 1, 1930. She married Ray Sharp on July 30, 1950 at First United Methodist Church, East Peoria. He passed away on October 23, 2003.

Neva was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Stanley Sharp and 11 siblings, Jerald Hackney, Bruce Hackney, Harry Hackney, Warren Hackney, Franklin Hackney, Louis Hackney, Andrew Hackney, Douglas Hackney, Fred Hackney, Martha McDowell and Ethel McClister.

She is survived by her daughters, Kathleen Stanley and Nancy (Jeff) Brooks; three grandsons, Adam Brooks (Angie Kienzle), Tristan Stanley, Rhys Stanley (Sarah Taylor) and many nieces and nephews.

Neva began her career as a long-distance operator, where her friendly voice connected countless individuals. She later served as a secretary at East Peoria Community High School, a role that allowed her to touch the lives of many students and faculty. Neva's commitment to her work continued as she joined Caterpillar, Inc., where she worked in accounts payable, and she spent 13 years as a legal secretary and office manager for Moehle, Reardon, Smith, and Day.

Beyond her professional life, Neva was a devoted homemaker and mother, nurturing her family with love and care. She also dedicated eight years assisting the Deputy Personal Tax Assessor for Tazewell County (Ray) and her contributions extended to the Chamber of Commerce for East Peoria.

Neva was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of East Peoria, where she actively participated for over 50 years. Her roles included teaching Sunday school for 45 years, assisting the Sunday school superintendent (Ray), and chairing the education committee multiple times. A devoted member of United Methodist Women, Neva held various leadership positions, including president, and she was a valued member of the Mary Martha Fellowship.

Her commitment to community service was evident through her volunteer work with the local food pantry, her presidency of the Bolin School Women’s Club, and her involvement in numerous community activities.

Visitation will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, East Peoria, with funeral service to immediately follow. Pastor Krista Price will officiate. Services will conclude at Fondulac Cemetery, East Peoria.

Memorial contributions may be made in Neva’s name to First United Methodist Church of East Peoria.