Born: September 26, 1928
Died: March 23, 2025 of Alzheimer's Disease
Age: 96
Louisville, KY
Education: Holy Cross, Presentation Academy
Occupation: Professional Vocalist
Mary Ann, surprisingly, began her professional career at 14 years of age when local band leader Logan Collins heard her sing. He was so impressed that he asked her to join the band. After several years with Logan's band she became a member of the local voice group The Metrotones who recorded several songs for Columbia. This led to a move to New York City and an audition for the Arthur Godfrey talent show which they won. Next came an audition for the Patti Page national television show and a contract for 70+ episodes.
She is survived by her loving husband, Chuck of 45 years, her son Brian Neeley (Carol), her daughter Julie Sellers (Bill), 4 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her daughter Alison Miller and her brother James Shanks.
Visitation:
Arch L. Heady funeral home 7410 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY, Wednesday, April 2nd from 4-8PM.
Funeral Service:
Roman Catholic Funeral Mass at the Cathedral of the Assumption 433 S. Fifth St. Louisville, KY Thursday, April 3rd at 12:00PM.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mary Ann's memory may be made to Hosparus.
A Haiku for Mary Ann
Now the slate is clean
The Songbird still knows the tunes
Please sing one for me
