Obituary of Marjorie Karol Neal

Marjorie Karol "Marge" Neal. 77 of Cortland, New York, passed away peacefully with her family and close friend by her side on August 3, 2025 at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center. Born on May 3, 1948 in Cortland, Marge was a lifelong resident who dedicated her life to caring for others with compassion and unwavering faith. She graduated from Cortland High School in 1966 and later pursued her calling in nursing. In 1984, she earned a Nursing Degree from Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3), launching a career that would leave a lasting impact on countless lives. Marge began her nursing journey at Cortland Memorial Hospital, where she worked in Mental Health until 1993. Her colleagues became close friends and her patients – whom she affectionately referred to as "my folks" – were the heart of her work. Known for going above and beyond the call of duty, Marge often extended care beyond hospital walls, offering support and kindness to those in need. Following her time at Cortland Memorial Hospital, Marge continued her vocation at St. Joseph's Continuing Day Treatment in Syracuse. There too, she poured herself into the lives of those she served. Throughout her career in mental health nursing, Marge was known for practicing tough love – setting firm boundaries while always leading with empathy and attentive listening. Her approach was rooted in deep compassion and genuine desire to help others heal. Outside of her professional life, Marge was an avid crafter with a particular passion for fiber arts. She spent many joyful hours cross-stitching and knitting but found special delight in crocheting during her later years. Her yarn collection was both extensive and cherished – a testament to the creativity and care she brought to everything she did. Marge's faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of God's Lighthouse of Praise in Cortland for many years, she lived out her beliefs through prayer, study and service. She spent a lot of time immersed in scripture and prayerful reflection. If you knew Marge – even briefly – you were likely included in one of her heartfelt prayers. She loved meaningful conversation and never missed an opportunity to share the message that Jesus loves each person deeply. She is survived by a sister, Melissa Slack of Cortland, her daughters Sarah (Mark) Fairbanks of Harford and Rebekah Roberts-Wicken of Arlington, Washington. Stepchildren, Aimee Roberts Hamabata of Monterey, California, Carl (Sherri) Roberts of Darrington, Washington. Grandchildren Josephine (AJ) Elmore of Rochester, NY, Austin and Emily Smith of Cortland, NY, Erik Anderson of Oregon, Alex Wicken of Washington State and two great grandsons who brought so much joy to her heart, Sebastian and Henry. As well as several nieces and nephews and cousins and a special friend of almost forty years Annabel Powers. Marge was predeceased by her father, Herbert Neal, 2015, Mother Elizabeth Wheeler, 2012, and brothers, James Neal, 2024, Jeffrey Neal, 2001 and a step son Wes Roberts, 2011. Marge's legacy is one of service, strength, creativity and faith. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A celebration of life will be held on August 10, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at "The Cabin" 1578 St Rt 221, Marathon, NY. Pastor Chuck Freeman will be speaking at 1:15 PM with food and a time to celebrate and share memories of Marge afterwards.