The season of life for Mother Annie Louise Ridley Nealy began in Albany, Georgia on January 27, 1927.  She was the daughter of the late Mack Ridley, Sr. and the late Alice Wimbush.

She received her formal education in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Madison High School (now Monroe Comprehensive High School.  She was stirred by her deep thirst for knowledge to further her education at Ohio State University in      Columbus, Ohio.

She was united in holy matrimony to Henry Nealy, Sr.   Their union stood the test of time and endured for 45 memorable years.  They were blessed with a blended family of twelve children whom they loved dearly.  As a loving wife and mother, she was diligent in caring for the needs of her family.  For more than 37 years, she nurtured young minds and talents as an educator in the Dougherty County School system.  Throughout her career, she made a lifelong impact on innumerable students who will carry on her legacy of excellence in education.  In 1982 as her health began to decline, she was lauded as a "molder, a shaper, a builder, and a layer of strong foundations."

Blessed beyond measure, Mother Nealy lived to see generations of her off-springs with whom she left a legacy of love, kindness, humility, and generosity.  She was a stern but gentle lady who greeted each day with a smile and touched the lives of many.  You couldn't know her without being inspired by her love and devotion to her family, friends, and community.

On Monday, April 22, 2019, Mother Nealy's 92-year journey quietly ended as she transitioned to her eternal home.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Nealy, Sr.; and three sons, George Gilbert, Michael Gilbert, and  Donald Gilbert, Sr.

Although absent from the body, she will forever be present in the hearts of her children, Barbara (Joseph) Thomas, Kenneth Gilbert, Lutricia Jones, Henry Nealy, Jr., Cassandra (Jonathan) Smith, Regina (Michael) Dye, Gregory Murphy, Freddie Stubbs, Sr., Ramona Nealy, and Jerome Nealy; daughter-in-law, Patricia Gilbert-Parker; brother, Mack (Julie) Ridley, Jr.; 17 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren, and 27 great-great grand-children; a very special friend who was like a brother, Willie (Elease) Jones; nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends.