Roma L.H. Niel

Roma L.H. Niel passed away peacefully at home on October 5, 2011 with her children and her pastor at her side.

She was born Roma Lois Hackworth on April 26, 1925 in Daus. She was valedictorian of her class at Sequatchie County High School, attended the University of Tennessee, Edmondson Business College and Kirkland Vocational. She worked at Santa Fe Railroad as a telegrapher in Needles in 1945. She went on to work for the Needles United School District for more than 20 years. She married Howard W. Niel on March 24, 1947 and had three children, Cynthia, Monte and Candace.

Throughout her life, she was active in women’s equality issues, politics, business and her church.

She was preceded in death by her husband; daughter, Cynthia Niel Davalos; and her eight brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her son, Monte H. Niel; granddaughter, Cherry Niel; daughter, Candace Niel; Lucy Jennings Niel, Jim Jakim and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends throughout California, Tennessee and Pennsylvania.

A memorial service was held October 29 at Needles Christian Church.