Martha Jean "Neanie" Squires (Woodbury) passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 94.  A talented artist, loving spouse, mother and friend, Neanie was born to Douglas and Mattie Woodbury on December 24, 1931, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Neanie spent her childhood in Arkansas, Mississippi and Springfield, Missouri. She attended Drury College graduating with a degree in Art. She married Sam Squires on December 29, 1954, and the two moved to Newport, Rhode Island where Sam was an engineering officer on the USS Cassin Young. Following his tour of duty, they moved back to Springfield where she raised her family and became a well-respected figure in the art community.

Neanie was one of five women who started Park Central Gallery, the first downtown art gallery in Springfield. She was active at the Springfield Art Museum, served on the board of the Springfield Regional Arts Council, and was accepted into Watercolor USA. She was also a mentor and a teacher for other artists in the community. She was a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority, the Junior League of Springfield, Knit Wits, Southern Club and South Street Christian Church.

Neanie is survived by her beloved children, Brad Squires and his wife Julie, and Anna Squires; granddaughter, Erin Olson and her husband Aaron; and great-grandchildren, Sam and Sterling.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Sam, her sister, Dorothy Ann Smith, her niece, Kendall Ann Smith, and her parents.

Neanie will be remembered for her love of family, her youthful spirit, her sense of adventure, her beautiful garden and her captivating artwork.

The family wishes to thank the staff at The Manor at Elfindale for the loving care given to Neanie.

A memorial service will be held at National Avenue Christian Church, 1515 S. National Avenue, on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with a reception of follow, under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Springfield Regional Arts Council, 411 N. Sherman Parkway, Springfield, MO 65802 or to Friends of the Springfield Art Museum, Attn: Kate Francis, 840 N. Boonville Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802.