Elizabeth Ann Neal

Elizabeth "Betty" Morrissey Neal, a cherished teacher, devoted wife, and beloved mother, passed away on November 10, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on June 14, 1932, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Betty was the daughter of William Patrick Morrissey and Mildred Irene Healey Morrissey. She was predeceased by her husband, Williams Wells Neal, Sr., her parents, her sister Phyllis Morrissey Graham, and her grandson, Henry Kevin Williamson, Jr.

Shortly after her graduation from Regis, Betty met the love of her life, Bill Neal, on a blind date. She told her roommate later that night that he was the man that she would marry. And they did on April 17, 1955. They lived in Brisbane CA, Springfield MA, Warwick RI, and finally Charlotte. They had a remarkable love story and were completely committed until Bill’s passing in 1993.

Betty's life was highlighted by her love, dedication, and passion for education. After graduating from Quincy High School in Quincy, MA in 1950, she pursued her dream of teaching by earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Regis University in Weston, MA in 1954, followed by a Master's Degree in Education from Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC in 1974. Her career as an elementary school teacher spanned more than three decades, during which she inspired countless young minds in Norfolk, MA, Brisbane, CA, and Charlotte, NC. In 1989, Betty was honored as the Charlotte Mecklenburg Teacher of the Year, a testament to her innovative teaching methods and her commitment to nurturing the potential of gifted and talented students.

Betty's classroom was a place of wonder and creativity. Her award-winning lesson plans on Vincent Van Gogh and Leonardo Da Vinci are fondly remembered by her students, who were encouraged to think critically and embrace a love of learning. Her enthusiasm for the early advancements in computer technology was infectious, and she skillfully integrated these tools into her teaching to create dynamic and engaging learning experiences.

Beyond her professional achievements, Betty was a vibrant member of her community. A faithful congregant of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church since 1969, she participated in various church activities, including Women's Guild and numerous bridge groups. Her love of bridge extended beyond the church to both in-person friend groups and online bridge games. Betty was a dedicated supporter of Charlotte Catholic High School sports and other school activities, and she spent many joyful summers assisting the swim team at Sharonview Country Club.

Betty's passion for the ocean was rooted in her childhood home near Wollaston Beach, MA and Cape Cod. Later in life, she cherished the time spent at her second home in Sunset Beach, NC, where she delighted in the company of her children and grandchildren.

Upon retirement, Betty enjoyed volunteering as a Docent at the Mint Museum, traveling with friends around the world, and writing and teaching poetry. Betty loved going to the Harris YMCA for many years, and her water aerobics class was an especially cohesive and fun group.

Betty is survived by her loving children, Mary Louise Neal Williamson (Kevin), William Wells Neal, Jr. (Jean), Elisa Neal Leak (Councill), and Katherine Neal Hartwell (Steve); her cherished grandchildren, Patrick Williamson (Brooke), Julia Neal Baird (Tom), Meghan Neal, William Wells Neal III, Councill Leak, Jr., Merrill Leak, Mason Leak (Maddie), and Zack Hartwell, and her great-grandson Rory Baird.

Betty's family was her greatest joy, and her quick wit, intelligence, and unwavering guidance left an indelible mark on their hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Betty's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN, an organization that was dear to her heart.

The family wishes to thank the hardworking nurses, caregivers, and staff of Brookdale Carriage Club Providence for five years of excellent care, love, and support of our mother.

Betty's legacy of love, learning, and laughter will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A service to honor Betty's remarkable life will be held on Monday, November 23, 2026 at 1:15 PM at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, located at 6828 Old Reid Rd. Charlotte, NC 28210.

Condolences may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com.