Mary Diane McNeill (Mills)

Mary Diane McNeill (Mills), 81, of Vinton, formerly from Montvale, VA passed away on Sunday, July 2, 2023.  Mary was born May 14, 1942, in Starkey, Roanoke County, VA.  She was the daughter of the late John Jefferson Mills and Susie Elizabeth Atkins.

Mary attended Parkway Wesleyan Church and enjoyed collecting Longaberger wicker baskets, Barbie dolls, and Boyds bears. Her biggest achievements were when she and her husband purchased their first home in Montvale, VA and when she got VA driver’s license..

She was a great biscuit maker and always ready to help, especially her children. She was a person you could turn to or call and she would be right there for you. In her earlier years she enjoyed dancing – flat footing was a favorite of hers and doing cartwheels with her children and grandkids. In her later years she had a particular love for gospel music. The Gathers were a favorite. Diane was simply amazing, and her loss will be felt forever. RIP sophisticated feisty little momma, you will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her children: Melvin Clemons, Bobby Clemons, Lisa Mitchell, Donna Clemons and Barbara Smith; her siblings: Libby Hamlin, Donald Atkins, Gracie Conner and Andy Atkins; she has 11 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren and many loving friends in the community.

In addition to her parents, John McNeill (husband), Shirley Richards, Clyde Mills, Betty Shaver, Johnny Mills, Julie Alley and Stevie Mills is predeceased by her.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, July 7, 2023, at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.

Tharp Funeral Home, of Bedford is assisting the family.  To send condolences, please visit www.tharpfuneralhome.com