Barbara Louise Neel

Barbara Louise Neel, 85 of Frederick, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Frederick Health Hospital.

Born on February 13, 1940, in Frederick, she was the daughter of late Milton W. Heerd and Pauline H. (Wachter) Heerd.

Mrs. Neel joined the Hood College administrative staff in 1960 as a secretary to the business manager. After serving as the assistant business manager and acting business manager was promoted to business manager from where she retired. Dr. Martha E. Church, president of the college at the time said “Mrs. Neel has earned a very special place of honor and respect here at Hood.”

She was a Baltimore Colts season ticket holder and attended many games along side her husband. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Spending time at her vacation/retirement home in Ocean City, MD., playing casino slots and bingo with her sister.

She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Donald W. Neel. Her son, Monty W. Neel and wife Cheryl, her daughter Kelli J. Dawson and husband John. Grandchildren; Kristin Remsburg, Mathew Remsburg, Lindsay (Neel) Anderson and husband Jason, Daniel W. Neel and wife Nora; great grandchildren; Kai Anderson, Rayne Anderson; Clare Neel and Samuel Neel. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Charlotte Rippeon and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends can gather at the Keeney and Basford Funeral Home, 106 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701, on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 12pm until the start of the funeral service at 1pm. Burial services immediately following at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 515 S. Market Street, Frederick, MD. 21701. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hood College. https://www.hood.edu/alumni-friends/areas-support/how-give