Joseph and Theresa Neville work and farm in Sedgwick County and have two boys, Nathaniel and Simon. Theresa is an occupational therapist for the Wichita school district, and Joseph is the fifth generation on his family’s farm. They grow corn, soybeans, wheat, milo, cotton, sunflowers, cover crops and hay and have a cow-calf operation, plus feed some stockers (weaned calves). Joseph’s mother, Jane, and older sister, Jackie, are heavily involved with the operation: Jane oversees the books, and Jackie is in charge of the cattle. Joseph also started a Beck’s Superior Hybrids dealership in 2022.
What made you want to become farmers/ranchers?
I am the fifth generation on our farm. I grew up helping out and growing my love for the work and the lifestyle. I never really imagined doing anything else. I thrive on the organized chaos of the busy seasons throughout the year and love the opportunity to be close to God’s creation and work with family every day.
What three things matter the most to you as a farmer/rancher?
1: market for our products
2: fair prices for inputs, machinery and commodities
3: protect and preserve our legacy for the next generation
How do you teach your kids about farming/ranching and the value of hard work?…