Neva Mae Meinhardt, 98, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, surrounded by the love of her family. She is survived by her sister Doris Collins, her three children; John Meinhardt, Susan Jones, and Carol Heil; eight grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Karl Meinhardt, her brother John Spreitzer and sister Marion Whaley.
Neva devoted her life to education and touched countless lives through her kindness, leadership, and dedication to her students and colleagues. Over the course of a remarkable 30-year career, she served as a teacher, principal, and ultimately superintendent. Even long after her retirement, many former students and friends continued to stay in touch with her, a reflection of the lasting impact she made on those around her.
She found joy in gardening, collecting angels, and traveling — especially her cherished trips to Hawaii. Neva will be remembered for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and the love she shared so generously with family and friends.
