Tracey Kay Neels, 64 of Freeport, Il, passed away Tuesday September 15, 2026 at University of Iowa Hospital, Iowa City, IA . She was born January 16, 1962 in Freeport, Il, the daughter of Calvin and Barbara (Shenberger) Thompson.

Tracey married Brian Neels October 4, 1980 at St. John’s United Church of Christ, Freeport, Il; Brian passed away February 21, 2021.

Tracey worked in hospitality services at YMCA Children’s Center. She enjoyed listening to country music, dancing and cooking. Spending time with her children and grandchildren was her favorite.

Tracey is survived by her daughter, Amber (Kyle) Williams; two son’s, Kyle (Carrie) Neels, and Kody (Courtney Kress) Neels; brother’s, Scott Thompson and Bill (Carla) Thompson; sister’s, Jodi (Tim) Welch, Debra (Rich) Mills, and Candy Kahly; brother-in-law’s, Ted (Pam) Neels, and Robin (Cindy) Neels; grandchildren, Maryssa Neels, Finley Wiliams, Deklyn Williams, Tanner Taggart, Adelyn Neels, and Thomas Neels; many nieces and nephews; and life-long best friends Jody and Todd Mercier.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; mother-in-law’s Norma Jean Neels and Sherry Neels; father-in-law, Theodore Neels; and brother-in-law, Allen Kraus.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Freeport Elk's Lodge 617 (608 W. Stephenson Street, Freeport, IL 61032) Sunday October 4, 2026 from 12-4:00 PM.