Norma Jean Neto

Norma Jean Neto passed away peacefully after battling polycythemia Vera for over 20 years. A devoted member of Saint Joseph’s Church since 1976 it was her place of spiritual refuge. Born in Birmingham, Alabama into a family of nine brothers and sisters they moved to Hayward in 1950 following her father’s employment with US Pipe. While attending the iconic Hayward Union High School she met the love of her life John Neto, who passed in 2015. She was intrigued by the Portuguese culture of his family from Madeira, Portugal. Being from such divergent backgrounds her parents did not approve of the relationship. As the result, they eloped on New Year’s Eve 1955 to Reno and got married. Her mother was livid, but Norma didn’t care, she was in love and as time progressed John ended up being one of her mother’s favorite family members. They celebrated their 60th anniversary just prior to “Johnny’s” departure.
Always dedicated to the pursuit of social justice and understanding, Norma became widely known for writing compelling letters to the editor which were featured with surprising regularity in this newspaper. She was also actively involved in Fremont’s community theater programs including a trip to Japan in the early 1980’s. Both she and John were also active in advocating for affordable housing.
In the 70’s her artistically oriented “McWilliams” family joined forces to open a gift shop across from Mission San Jose called “Mac’s Factory” where everything sold was crafted by family artisans. Norma was a watercolor artist and member of the Olive-Hyde Art Guild where she enjoyed many art-centric social gatherings. She spent several years working for the City Of Fremont and retired in 1998.
As a mother of 4, she lost 3 of her children at early ages from the genetic illness, cystic fibrosis. She persevered through faith and a strong will that she exhibited to the very end.
She is survived by her son Mitchell and his wife Shelly Neto of Davenport, grandson Matthew, his wife Kaycee and great-grandsons Sawyer and Milo Neto of Lincoln, Ca. Granddaughter Mariel Neto of Los Angeles, and devoted nieces Samantha McWilliams of Vancouver, Canada and Michelle Kew of Walnut Creek, Ca as well as many other god children and loved ones.
Friends and family are invited to attend the rosary and funeral service on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 10:30 AM at St Joseph’s Church 43148 Mission Blvd. In Fremont. Those interested are welcome to come to a viewing starting at 9AM before services at Berge Pappas Smith Chapel of the Angels, 40842 Fremont Blvd., Fremont, CA 94538. A burial will follow at 12:30 PM at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 26320 Mission Blvd., Hayward, CA.