Sophia "Mom" Neel

New Iberia - A Celebration of Life service will be scheduled and announced at a later date by the immediate family of Sophia Lois Morel “Mom” Neel, 92, who passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 26, 2020 at her home in New Iberia, LA surrounded by precious family and friends. A native of Houston, Texas, Mrs. Neel was born on February 29, 1928 (as a leap year baby), to Ira and Jessie Young Morel. She was a graduate of North Central Bible College in Minneapolis. “Mom” Neel and her beloved husband of 67 years, Donald “Pop” Neel served Jesus Christ in full-time ministry, pioneering and pastoring seven churches in Texas, Ohio, and Louisiana, including First Assembly of God in New Iberia, where they received the endearing names of “Pop & Mom Neel.” As a woman of strong faith, “Mom” enjoyed singing and worshipping her Lord on the piano every morning, leading women’s prayer groups, and spending time with family and friends. She always offered a listening ear and wise encouragement. Mom’s sweet demeanor, persistent prayer life, and Christian example shaped the spiritual lives of many. Her life motto was, “Always be sweet and love Jesus!” Survivors include her sons, Paul Neel and wife Lynn, John Neel and wife Monica; grandchildren, Kari LeBlanc and husband Lance, Kelly Neel, Kristopher Neel and wife Courtney, Kristen Neel; great grandchildren, Anna LeBlanc, Christian LeBlanc, Alexander LeBlanc, Cameron LeBlanc, Chael LeBlanc, Beckham Neel, and Liv Neel; siblings, Shirley Hardcastle, Ira “Buddy” Morel, Sally Mitchell, David Morel, and Daniel Morel. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Donald “Pop” Neel, and a sister, Althea Jones. Pellerin Funeral Home, 502 Jefferson Terrace Blvd., New Iberia, LA 70560, (337-365-3331) is in charge of arrangements.