Obituary of Edith Jett Neal

Edith Jett Neal, 91 formerly of Geneva Towers, Cedar Rapids died peacefully on Thursday, October 11, 2007 at Heritage Care Center in Cedar Rapids. Edith was born April 11, 1916, in Manitou, OK, the daughter of John and Ethel (Garrison) Jett. She moved to the Cedar Rapids area where for a number of years she worked for Rockwell Collins in food service. Neal dedicated her time and resources to a number of organizations and causes. She was an active member of the Salvation Army for fifteen years, and a contributor to organizations such as the American Indian Youth Support. Neal’s charitable work came to the forefront during the Vietnam War. She spent eight hours a day, six days a week coordinating mailing lists, writing letters and wrapping gifts to send to servicemen stationed in Vietnam. Fondly known as the “Vietnam Mail Lady,” Neal advertised through newspapers, radio and television for women who wished to correspond with servicemen. Her “Servicemen’s Name Clearing Bureau” provided mail for over one thousand soldiers, of whom she personally kept in contact with some 200, until her failing eyesight forced her retirement. Throughout her entire life, Edith had a deep faith in God and read her Bible daily, even when it required a magnifying glass in later years. Her family includes two sons, Marvin and Jim Keefer; grandchildren, great grandchildren, one brother, Robert Jett and his wife, Norma; sister-in-law, Eudema Jett; nieces and nephews. Edith was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Delora Dohrer and Vera Fackler, brother Louis Jett, and son, David Keefer. Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is caring for Edith’s family and her services. One of Edith’s request was her services be attended by only her family at the Oakland Cemetery in Iowa City. Another was that those who wish to remember her spirit give generously to the Salvation Army. If you wish to share a thought or memory, go to www.gayandciha.com to condolences and send her family a note.