Lila Rochelle Neilon

Lila Rochelle Neilon, 86, passed away on March 21, 2025, in Fort Collins, Colorado. Born in Liberal, Kansas March 30, 1938, Lila spent her life spreading love and kindness to everyone she encountered. She was a devoted mother, grandmother (grammy), great grandmother and friend.

Her mantra, which many might remember, was also her voicemail message, warmly encouraging people to "teach only love." Lila's generosity of spirit was expressed in many ways, and she loved to host family and friends for large gatherings, to cook and bake, to listen to music and to laugh. She was a stylish lifelong member of Sweet Adelines (the international a cappella barbershop society for women) who traveled all over the country competing with her quartet and chorus, winning championships, and performing at legendary venues, most notably Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Lila enjoyed working outside the home and loved meeting new people. After going back to school to become an executive secretary, she used those skills and her innate people skills over the span of her career to serve high ranking military officers at Fitzsimons Army Base in Denver, real estate clients in Fort Collins, and Beauticontrol customers in several states.

Lila was an avid reader from a young age developing a thirst for knowledge eventually focusing on an interest in holistic healing and natural medicine. She enjoyed sewing, crafts, travel and new adventures. She was a story time volunteer at the Fort Collins Public Library and volunteer receptionist for Hospice of Larimer County. In later life, Lila focused on cherished time with family and friends. She was dearly loved and will be truly missed.

Lila is predeceased by her husband Gerald F. Neilon, parents Fyrne and Harry Barnes, sister Pat Wesley, granddaughter Kahla Aragon and her beloved dog Pip. Survived by her three daughters Lesa Kelleher, Tova Aragon and Tara Spahr; three grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Lila will be remembered in a private celebration of life. Donations can be made in her name to Smile Train, https://www.smiletrain.org/ and Sweet Adelines International, https://sweetadelines.com/give .