Josie Neel

There is no doubt that Josie Neel was a bright light in the lives of many. Her infectious smile could light up any room. Born slightly premature, she made up for her small stature in her larger than life personality! She lived her life as a constant reminder that life itself is a gracious gift. Gone too soon, Josie will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by the many special people she leaves behind. 2018 began with a super blue moon, snow in the Sierra Desert and Sydney, Australia had its hottest day on record! Climate change discussions were definitely on the rise with the important midterm elections held that year. Yet, towards the end of that year, Josie Taylor, was born into the arms of her loving parents, JT Neel and Megan Oswalt, on November 27th, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Her birth brought them great joy and happiness. Every aspect of her young life had been planned out far before her arrival. What they didn’t know, however, is that she would arrive early weighing in at 5 lbs 6 oz. and that in the short time they would have her as their daughter their lives would be changed for the better. Within forty-eight hours of her birth, Josie underwent surgery to repair her congenital heart defect, truncus arteriosus. In a matter of a few short months after healing, her parents were already busy planning to make each and every moment they shared with her a positive memory. Josie enjoyed playing with her cousins, having her mom read and sing to her, and playing with her special baby dolls. Inquisitive as well as curious, she often loved to stare out the window looking for deer with her dad. She would often sit mesmerized by both the wonders of nature as well as the mannerisms of people as she was always alert and active. She loved to say, “Hi,” and was especially fond of her special cousins, Addy and Grady, who shared many playdates together. Easy going and always happy, Josie left a lasting impression on all those who knew her. Fiercely independent, she wanted nothing more than to join in on any fun! When her family watched the ever popular Cinderella movie, Josie would anticipate with great joy her favorite part when the characters sang, Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo! She absolutely loved it and even had her own special dance for that part of the movie! Despite her great love for all people, she also loved her furry companion, her dog, Harvey. She absolutely adored him. Aside from their worries or concerns, her parents, JT and Megan, were forever grateful for the joy she brought into their daily lives. They knew all of her likes and dislikes and encouraged her to try new things. She had many special interests and loved to eat Mac ‘n Cheese! Unable to walk fully on her own, she made the most of her adventurous spirit by rolling along the floor. When she made her mind up that it was time to move, she was literally on the go! Described as social, pure, and happy-hearted, Josie will forever be remembered for her special spunk and ability to make others smile. May her loved ones always reflect on her special presence among them as well as her sweet and joyous ways as they grieve her short time with them. Josie Taylor-B Neel, of Vicksburg, Michigan, passed away from complications with her heart on Saturday, December 7, 2019, at the tender age of one year old. Josie is survived by her parents: JT Neel and Megan Oswalt, of Vicksburg; Grandparents: Shane and Heidi Neel, of Vicksburg and Dan and Kelly Oswalt, of Vicksburg; great grandparents: Bonnie Oswalt, of Vicksburg; Kathy Lange, of Vicksburg; and Gary Neel, of AL; great-great-grandmother: Darlene Cain, of South Haven. She is also survived by her aunts and uncles: Emily and Andy Foster, of Vicksburg; Derek and Katie Debiak, of Vicksburg; Justin and Morgan, of Otsego; and Wyatt Neel, of Vicksburg; special cousins: Grady, Addy, Braelyn, Brynlee, and Easton. She is preceded in death by her great grandparents: Gordon Oswalt, Edwin, and Ruth Martin, and Vivian Schroeder. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2019, at 11 am at Valley Family Cathedral, 2500 Vincent Ave, Portage, MI 49024. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 10 am at the church. Please visit Josie’s webpage at www.mccowensecord.com where you can sign the guestbook and/or share a memory. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that checks be made payable in one of the parents names for a future memorial fund that will be setup in Josie’s name. The family is being served by the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269-649-1697).