Joanne Ruth Neal went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 20, 2018. Surrounded by her family, Joanne received her ultimate healing from her challenges with cancer as she entered heaven. Joanne was born in Winfield, KS on May 22, 1929, and grew up in Topeka, KS. She and her identical twin sister, Jeanne, were the daughters of the late Francis and Ruth (Fowler) Nettleton.

She graduated from Topeka High School and received her Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from the Conservatory of Music of the University of Missouri at Kansas City, Missouri. Joanne and Jeanne, known as The Nettleton Twins, were concert duo-pianists, beginning the study of piano at the age of five years and performing before numerous audiences nationwide. They made their New York concert debut at age 20 and were under management of New York impresario, Sol Hurok. For several years, they made extensive concert tours throughout the United States, Canada, and Alaska.

Joanne married R. Wayne Neal, M.D., in 1957. They demonstrated godly love and commitment to their family as they enjoyed nearly 55 years of happy marriage, before he preceded her in death in 2011.

Although her twin sister, Jeanne, died in 2012, Jeanne's husband, George Strella, survives Joanne. She is also survived by a son, David Neal of Vinita, OK, his wife Laura, and their children Tom (wife Emily), Carl (wife Kimalee), and Sam; and a daughter, Carole Jeanne Runnels of Tulsa, her husband, David, and their children Emily, Jack and Joseph. Joanne was so proud of her children and grandchildren.

Joanne was a lifetime member of Sigma Alpha Iota, a national music fraternity. She was also a member of First United Methodist Church in Tulsa, member of the Sanctuary Choir for many years, and member of the Carpenters Sunday School Class, where she served faithfully at the piano in worship. While Joanne and Jeanne had great success with piano in touring and performing, they loved using their amazing musical talent to glorify God and point others to Jesus. She composed several gospel choruses and anthems, many based on Holy Scripture.

The family will receive friends Friday, February 23, 2018, from 5-7 PM at Moore's Southlawn Funeral Home 9350 E. 51st. The Memorial Service will be held at First United Methodist Church at 1115 S. Boulder in Tulsa at 11 AM on Saturday, February 24, 2018. Contributions may be made to Regent Preparatory School of Oklahoma, 8621 S. Memorial or First United Methodist Church. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233 share memories at www.moorefuneral.com