Gwendolyn Marie Neace

Gwendolyn Marie Neace, of Lebanon, Ohio, entered her eternal home in heaven on September 20, 2025, at the age of 78. She was born on October 6, 1946, to Luther Elwood Myers and Myrtle Ivy Swangim. She lived a life marked by love for family, strength of character, and a reputation that commanded respect.

Family was at the center of her life. She raised three children and poured herself into her role as a mother. She was cautious of our spouses at first, but in time she welcomed them into the circle as her own. As the years passed, she became both a source of discipline and later, to the surprise of her children, a source of gentle grace with her grandchildren.

Known for her firm hand, sharp humor, and deep care for those she called family and friends, she influenced everyone around her. Cousins, neighbors, and friends alike respected her strong presence. Many remember her as a woman who could not be crossed easily, yet one who loved deeply and faithfully.

She is survived by her children:

• Ivy Michelle and Robert Whitehead, and their children Joshua, Amanda, and Kyle. Joshua and his wife Samantha are the parents of Gunner and Nolan. Amanda and her husband Josiah Ingles are the parents of Juda, Asher, Luke, and Zion. Kyle Whitehead is their youngest.

• Michael and Becky Myers, and their children Carmen, Seth, Landon, Nevaeh, Chris, along with their son Ethan, who is in heaven.

• Shenna Neace and Brian Richard, and Shenna’s son Austin Neace, along with April Estep, who is expecting twin babies in April 2026.

She is also survived by her sister, Lois Webb. She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther Elwood Myers and Myrtle Ivy Swangim; her siblings James, Loraine, Linda, Ted, Calvin, and Charles; her grandson Ethan Myers; and Eric Beyer.

Her family will host a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Hodapp Funeral Home, Liberty Township (6410 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd., Liberty Township, OH 45044). Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the service at 11:45 a.m. Burial will follow at Vine Street Cemetery.

Following the graveside service, friends and family are invited to gather at her home, 2818 Shawhan Road, Lebanon, Ohio, for food and fellowship. The family will provide chicken and another meat option, and guests are welcome to bring a covered dish.

In her honor, the family asks that carnations not be brought, as she always associated them with death. Instead, they invite everyone to celebrate her eternal life in heaven with joy, laughter, and shared memories.

Gwendolyn’s legacy will live on in the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the many people she touched.