Lorena Mcneel

Anne McNeel, 86, of West Columbia passed from this life on April 7, 2019 in Angleton. She was born in Wharton on Sept. 27, 1932 to Edward Dance Farmer and Gladys G. Farmer.

Anne grew up with the world of Pierce, Texas at her feet in a wonderful house filled with magical nooks and secret hideaways. Her love of horses began here and her most treasured moment was when she received her mare, Nancy. After attending college at Wharton, followed by graduation from Sam Houston in Huntsville, she followed in her mother's footsteps with a career in teaching. Many West Columbia residents still remember her as their first grade teacher.

Anne's marriage to J. P. McNeel added a ranching element to her life, and she was able to fulfill a dream of raising and showing horses, as well as teaching horsemanship to children. A riding club became part of the mix and trips and shows with the girls and their parents were highlights of her life. Crowning achievements later on were National Championship shows and honors with her half Arabian gelding, Sur-Prize.
Anne seemed to excel at every challenge she took on. She was proud of her "perfect pitch" and sang and played many instruments, including piano, guitar, banjo, and mandolin.
After early retirement because of a heart condition, Anne made a business of her artistic abilities. Her bluebonnets can still be spotted in local homes and businesses, as well as many other of her works.

Those who knew Anne knew how resourceful, strong willed, and independent she was. She found ways around nearly every obstacle, argued with confidence, and treasured her time alone at home. Even so, she was surrounded by wonderful friends and neighbors and the incredibly caring people of West Columbia.

She is survived by niece, Diane McGinn & husband, Dennis, nephew, Danny Farmer ; great nephews, Aaron Dykes & wife, Melissa & Austin Dykes & wife, Nikki; step-son, John McNeel III; caring friends, Nanci, Tony , Anne , Clayton, Earl, Louise, & Lisa. She was preceded in death by her parents; former spouse, J. P. McNeel; brother, Edward Farmer; and nephew, Damon Farmer.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in her memory to the Christian Senior Citizens Center.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, April 10, 2019 at 10:15 am at Columbia Cemetery with Pastor Paul Kethley officiating. A visitation will be held at Baker Funeral Home in West Columbia on Wednesday, April 10, 2019 from 9:00 am until 10:00 am.

To plant a tree in memory of Lorena Anne McNeel, visit the Tribute Store .