Velma A. (Wood) Neese

Velma Ann Neese, 95, of Mars, passed away Saturday morning, September 6, 2025.

She was born in Tarentum, PA on December 14, 1929 to a coal miner, Herbert and Laura Rittman Wood. Velma enjoyed 66 years of marriage to her late husband, Raymond Neese, who passed away 12 years ago. Together, they raised their family of 5 children in her beloved town of Mars, PA.

Velma enjoyed volunteering for many local organizations throughout her years. She was a secretary for Treesdale Farms for 19 years. In 1953, Velma and Ray joined Old Union Church and remained faithful members till her death. Her church activities included Willing Workers, Woman’s Association, and Deacons. In her lifetime, she volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Days for Girls, and Mars AARP.

The joy of her life was her 5 children, 8 grandchildren, and 20 great grandchildren. Her children included Sherry Basciano of Derry, PA, Diana Kelly (Paul) of Hudson, FL, Linda Millson (Jim) of Middlesex Twp, David Neese (Janice) of Middlesex Twp, and Jeff Neese (Robin) of Mars.

Preceded in death by her sisters, Helen McMullen and Dorothy Markich, her brothers, Ira and Francis Wood, and her son-in-law, Norman Basciano.

Velma will be remembered for her love of her family and community and lived each day with unwavering faith in her Lord.

Friends will be received at the McDonald-Aeberli Funeral Home, Inc. 238 Crowe Ave. Mars, PA on Tuesday from 3-7 PM. Services will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 AM at Old Union Presbyterian Church, 200 Union Church Rd. Mars, PA 16046 with Rev. Dr. Peter deVries, officiating. Burial will be in Pinewood Memorial Park, Cranberry Twp. PA. Memorials in her memory may be made to Old Union Presbyterian Church. Directions and condolences are available at www.mcdonald-aeberli.com.