In memory of Frances E. Neelands

St. Johns County lost a tireless community leader last week; a diligent and dedicated worker who was recognized as both a volunteer and donor to organizations, helping scores of local residents from all walks of life.

Frances Neelands passed away last Sunday at the Bailey Center for Caring. She grew up on Davis Shores in St. Augustine, and was a Ketterlinus High School graduate. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business and Finance from Florida State College for Women.

Some of her volunteer work was with The First Coast Pilot Club, Health and Human Services Advisory Council, Woman’s Exchange, Friends of the Library, RSVP, and Friends of Health and Human Services, among others.

Historic City News Editor Michael Gold first met Frances when she was serving as an administrative aide to former County Commissioner Jim Bryant. Gold said he considers himself fortunate for knowing her. “Frances was Jim’s right arm through three terms in office — that’s a long time,” Gold said. “Her dedication to the county was apparent.”

Neelands was active in the start-up of several agencies that have become a vital part of the community.

After twelve years with Commissioner Bryant, Neelands volunteered her time to assist his daughter, Joy Bryant, at the St. Johns Housing Partnership. In the course of what seemed like an endless flood of foreclosures, Frances and Joy worked together to help local residents keep their homes through the Foreclosure Mitigation Department.

Edward P. Paucek, owner of Moses Creek Realty & Blackstar Construction, worked with Neelands through the St. Johns Builders Council. He informed the members of the Board of County Commissioners at their Tuesday morning meeting of her passing.

Mary Jane Little, retired director of the St. Johns County Public Library, cared for Frances during her final days.

Neelands listed her favorite charities as the St. Johns County Council on Aging, St. Johns County Legal Aid, St. Johns Housing Partnership Foreclosure Mitigation Department, St. Johns County Main Library and Community Hospice Bailey Family Center for Caring, and asked that others make donations to them in lieu of flowers.

Frances Neelands will be missed at civic functions in the future, but her generous nature will be an inspiration to those who carry on.

Photo credits: © 2011 Historic City News contributed photograph