Pamela H. "Pam" Neusser

Pamela H. “Pam” Neusser, age 80, of Granger Twp., died on February 14th, 2026. She was born August 24th, 1945 in Louisville, KY to parents Edgar and Elizabeth Hawes. She lived a life rich in meaningful pursuits, touching the lives of friends, family, and community members through her dedication, humor, and warmth. She graduated from Hillsdale College with a bachelor’s degree in education, and worked as an educator. She chose kindergarten because she wanted to make sure that she was taller than her students!

Pam was deeply involved in community theater, actively contributing to productions at Weathervane Playhouse from the early 1970s through the 1990s. She especially loved stage managing, where her steady leadership, organization, and calm presence helped bring countless performances to life. Her talent and dedication were recognized with an award that stood as a testament to her commitment and excellence. It was through her time at Weathervane that she met her husband, James A. “Jim” Neusser.

In 2001, Pam and Jim joined the Miata Club, where she quickly became an enthusiastic and beloved member. Alongside her assistant and partner in adventure, Jim, she organized several memorable club tours, including the fondly remembered “Stupid Tour” and the “Pack for Alpacas Tour.” She also competed in autocross racing, embracing both the excitement and challenge, and earning recognition for her accomplishments.

Pam’s love of horses began while living in Evanston, Illinois, inspired in part by her father’s involvement in a Chicago horse troop that performed at President Lyndon Baines Johnson’s inauguration. In 2005, Pam returned wholeheartedly to the horse world when she inherited Flash, a retired polo pony. With characteristic determination, she ensured Jim joined her in this passion. Flash was later followed by their beloved horse, Dancer. Pam also generously gave her time for more than eight years volunteering at Victory Gallop, a therapeutic riding center, helping young children who faced emotional, behavioral, and serious health challenges. Her kindness and patience made a meaningful difference in many lives.

Pam found joy in life’s quieter moments as well. She was an avid reader and longtime book club member, always eager to explore new ideas and stories. She practiced Tai Chi for eight years, embracing its harmony of mind and body.

Travel was one of Pam’s greatest joys. She loved exploring places rich in Civil War history, touring antebellum homes, traveling by steamboat along the Mississippi River, and discovering historic sites. She preferred authentic local experiences, often staying in unique accommodations such as shotgun houses in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Among her most cherished memories was swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys.

Edisto Island, South Carolina, held a special place in Pam’s heart and was her favorite retreat. Its peaceful, rural beauty brought her immense happiness. There, she embraced nature fully, even helping guard loggerhead sea turtle nests until the hatchlings emerged - an experience that reflected her deep appreciation for the natural world.

Pam will be remembered for her intelligence, determination, generosity, and joyful embrace of life. She brought enthusiasm and care to everything she did, and her presence enriched all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

Preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Elizabeth Hawes; she is survived by her husband and soulmate, Jim Neusser; loving sons, Blair Judson, Christopher Neusser (Michele), and Jeff Neusser (Judy); and grandchildren Jude, Ben, Abby, and Brynn.

A funeral service to celebrate Pam’s extraordinary life will be held 6 P.M. WEDNESDAY February 18th, 2026 at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road. Friends may call from 4 P.M. until the start of the service. The funeral will be officiated by Pastor Don Smith. Pam will be laid to rest at Moore’s Chapel Cemetery in a private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Victory Gallop or to The Bath Church United Church of Christ. 

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)