Rachel Mildred Neff, 94, of LaHarpe, Illinios passed away Thursday, May 12, 2022, at Hickory Grove Supportive Living in Carthage, Illinois.

Rachel was born on May 13, 1927 in Media, Illinois to Paul and Faye Gibson. She lived with her grandparents and graduated from Media High School in 1945. She married Bob Neff in June, 1945, in Media.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother, Dick Gibson, two sister-in-laws, a nephew. a grandson and a great grandson.

Surviving are Rachel's five children and their families: Michael Neff of Carthage, Dallas (Marcia) Neff of LaHarpe, Debi Neff of Morton, Martha (Randy) Kindred of Bloomington and Denise (Dave) Harrell of Carthage. Also surviving are three nephews, nine grandchildren, two step grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and two step great grandchild.

A graveside service has been scheduled for 10:30 on Monday, May 16, at Raritan Cemetery, Raritan, Illinois with Rev. Bruce Goettsche officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to St. Jude Children's Research, Hickory Grove Sun Room Fund, Jett Brown Scholarship. Contributions may be left at the graveside service or mailed to the Rachel Neff Memorial Fund, c/o banks & Beals Funeral Home, PO Box 503, LaHarpe, IL 61450

Rachel embodied a loving spirit throughout her life, first as a daughter and sister and later as a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She cherished faith and family above all else, making them the cornerstones of everything she did.

Rachel had an engaging sense of humor. Her easy smile and friendly demeanor warmed the hearts of everyone she met. She was a kind, generous soul who was quick to help those in need, donating her time, money or a delicious dish from her kitchen. She enjoyed shopping and spending time with family and her many friends.

Though short in stature, Rachel was a big presence in the lives of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. As matriarch of a large farm family, she set an example of compassion and caring through her actions and words.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hickory Grove Supportive Living and Carthage Memorial Hospital for the care Rachel received in recent years. They served her well, just as she did for others during a lifetime of giving.

She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Heaven has gained an angel. To leave a condolence, please visit Rachel's obituary at www.banksandbeals.com.