Neva Ann “Winkie” Bings never met a spotlight she didn’t love—whether it was lighting up a room with her laughter, stealing the show with her storytelling, or cheering the loudest at a family gathering. Always the life of the party, Winkie passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, November 11, 2025, surrounded by the family and friends who adored her.
Born October 1, 1943, in Washington, D.C., Winkie came into the world as Neva Ann Wink, the daughter of Lillian C. Clark of D.C. and James E. Wink of Baltimore. She grew up with her beloved brother, Curtice C. Wink.
Winkie’s energy and zest for life carried her through everything she did. She first married Melvin E. Harrison in 1962, and later, on December 14, 1972, married the love of her life, William “Bill” Thomas Bings. Bill absolutely adored Winkie—her loud laugh, her big heart, and her joyful, carefree spirit. Together, they were an unstoppable duo: fun, loving, and brave in everything they pursued.
Professionally, Winkie worked as a payroll manager for the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, while Bill served as Vice President of Freddie Mac. In May of 1988, they traded the busy life of the East Coast for a new adventure in Ohio, purchasing and running the Yogi Bear Jellystone Campground—a dream they built and shared for nearly 25 years. It became a place of laughter, stories, and lifelong friendships, reflecting the warmth and fun Winkie brought to everyone she met.
A breast cancer survivor, Winkie faced every challenge with courage and strength, never losing her joyful outlook or her infectious humor. She was generous, supportive, and always full of energy—the kind of person who made you feel special just by being around her.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Robin L. and Jeffery Ries of Bellville; her son and daughter-in-law, Curtice C. Sr. and Amy Bings of Mansfield; and her grandchildren: Curtice C. Bings II and Michelle Bings, Ashley E. Ries and Gary Greathouse, Alex Crispin, Sophie Crispin and Lynn Zemaitis, and Elliot Bings. She also leaves behind her great-granddaughter, Paisley M. Bings, brother and sister-in-law Curtice C. and Shirley Wink, her nephew Jimmy Wink (Alice), and great-nephew Jake Wink.
Winkie loved traveling with her family in their camper, playing bingo with her grandchildren, and enjoying countless cruises and adventures. Ever the traveler, she and Bill bought their first motorhome in 1976 and spent their winters in Louisiana before finally settling on Gulf Shores, Alabama—where they made dear friends and countless memories under the southern sun.
Back home, Winkie found joy in simple pleasures: dinners and pumpkin carving, trips to Kingwood Center, and creative art projects with her dear friends Don Newton, Sandy Hummel, Kari Douglas, Lisa Jamieson and Becky Stauffer. Her laughter filled every room, her kindness touched every heart, and her strength inspired everyone lucky enough to know her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Thomas Bings, on March 29, 2022; her parents, Lillian and James Wink; and a nephew.
Winkie’s spirit will forever shine brightly—colorful, fearless, and unforgettable—just like she lived.
Friends may call Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 10 am to 12 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home where a memorial service will follow at 12 pm. Chaplain Reggie Cureton will officiate and interment will take place in Bellville Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve.
Messages of support may be made to the family by visiting snyderfuneralhomes.com
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com