Vella Pauline Hayden Neely, daughter of Elmer and Pearl Hayden began her life's journey in Wichita, KS on March 7, 1931. As a young child she attended Dunbar Elementary and then went on to East High School graduating in 1949. She enjoyed many sports including archery, roller skating, tennis and crochet. She played piano by ear, enjoyed dancing and singing. She enjoyed a wide variety of long earrings and wearing hats. Many of her hats and clothes were designed by her and made by her husband.

In June of 1952, Vella graduated from The Wichita St. Joseph School of Nursing. She was the only minority in her class at that time and underwent considerable challenges due to racism. She initially started in surgery at Wichita Hospital but later moved to the emergency room at St. Joseph. She worked part time from 1956 until 1970. She was highly respected and even after she retired, Doctors would come to her home to try to get her to come back.

She was married for 55 years to the love of her life, Elwood L. Neely "Papa". To this union three children were born, Daniel, Maryon and Jacquline. They faithfully attended mass at Holy Savior Catholic Church.

Mom loved having dinners in the "Colonnade Room" made by Mr. Neely. She kept the tables always set and got all the family together on Sundays and holidays to eat, laugh and enjoy time together. Many times, we would end up playing music, singing and trying to jitterbug.

Mom loved being close to her family. She always wanted to know what you were doing and you could count on a daily call or two. Vella was precede in death by her parents, Elmer and Pearl; husband, Elwood L. Neely; sisters, Joyce Hayden and Maryon V. Neely and brother, Billy John Hayden.

Vella leaves to cherish her memory her son, Daniel B. Neely (Eva); daughters, Maryon J. Habtemariam (Steve), Jacquline M. McPherson (Dana), all from Wichita, KS; cousin, Carol Hayden of Lee Summit, MO; six grandchildren, Tamika Leverett, of Colorado, Brandon Habtemariam (Liliana) of Maryland, Micale Habtemariam, Sarah Habtemariam, Nikima McPherson and Princess Fonseca (Jesus') all from Wichita, KS; eleven great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Holy Savior Catholic Church.