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Vavra Alexandra Neller
Comptroller and Philanthropist

LITCHFIELD - Vavra Alexandra (Ali) Neller, 58, passed away peacefully at her home in Litchfield, Conn. on October 25, 2016.
Ali was born in Paris, France on January 8, 1958. After growing up in New Canaan, Conn., she moved to Pennsylvania and graduated from Villanova University with a degree in Accounting.
Shortly thereafter, Ali relocated to the small town of Litchfield, Conn., to be close to her mother, brother, niece, and nephew. It was here she established her career and eventually became the comptroller of a local insurance agency.
On June 6, 1998, Ali married William J. Neller, thus beginning the happiest and most fulfilling time in her life. Throughout their 18 years of marriage, Billy and Ali shared an unabashed love and devotion for one another, evident to all those lucky enough to know and befriend them.
Ali had an infectious laugh, a tremendous level of compassion, and a drive to make the lives of those around her better in any way she could. She loved deeply and gave freely, never expecting anything in return. When diagnosed with cancer, Ali battled with determination and her trademark optimism, all the while continuing her volunteer work. Ali was a core fixture in the organization of the Litchfield Hills Road Race, dedicating countless hours that spanned decades. Along with her husband, Billy, she helped to grow the Possum Queen Foundation, a beloved community event that raises money for families in need.
Ali was predeceased by her father, John Daniel Shafer, mother Vavra Martin Sprankle, and brother, Charles Geoffrey Shafer.
In addition to her loving and devoted husband, Ali is survived by her brother, Gordon Shafer; niece, Jennifer White; nephew, Brian Shafer; and their families.
Ali will also be deeply missed by her “Litchfield family,” including numerous close friends, committee members, and acquaintances fortunate enough to have laughed alongside her over a fine meal and a nice glass of wine. She was a loyal friend to many, and while her contributions to our community will leave a void, it is undoubtedly her presence that will be missed most of all. Her spirit and the positive impact she had on the Town of Litchfield and its residents will continue for a very, very long time.
A memorial service will be held at St. Anthony’s of Padua in Litchfield, 49 South St, Litchfield, on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, a celebration of Ali’s life will take place at the Litchfield Inn at 432 Bantam Rd, Litchfield, CT. All are welcome.
Ali’s family would like to thank the Northwest Connecticut Visiting Nurses Association, Smilow Cancer Clinic of Torrington, and Dana-Farber Cancer Center of Boston.
To honor Ali’s legacy of “giving,” her family requests considering a donation to the Possum Queen Foundation in lieu of flowers. Possum Queen Foundation, P.O. Box 1865, Litchfield, CT 06759.

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