SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Family and friends spent Friday morning celebrating the life of Congressman Richard Neal's wife, Maureen Neal. Libertas Academy Charter School enters brand new facility in Springfield Maureen P. Neal, the wife of U.S. Representative Richard E. Neal, passed aw ay on March 19th at the age of 74 years old. She leaves her husband, and four children, Rory, Brendan, Maura Fitzpatrick, and Sean, as well as ten grandchildren, two sisters, and two brothers. Mrs. Neal was born and raised in Holyoke, graduating from Holyoke High School and the University of Massachusetts. She first worked in the Hampden County District Attorney’s office and then became a teacher at St. Joseph’s Grammar School and Our Lady of Hope Grammar School. Later in her professional career, she worked for the State Auditor’s office and the Springfield Parks Department. Her joy and pride always came from spending time with her family. In return, her family and the Springfield community spent the morning remembering her at Sacred Heart Church. She was buried at Saint Michael's Cemetery. Local News Headlines Safety experts remind drivers about 'Move Over Law' after three workers killed on I-91 State House Spotlight: Lawmakers and advocates collaborate Local lawmaker fights back against illegal dirt bikes Utility bills skyrocketed 300% in February WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less