Marie Neswood

Marie Roanhorse Neswood (May 24, 1932 – December 24, 2017) was a Navajo judge and politician. She was the first woman confirmed as a judge for the Navajo Nation, serving on the bench from 1976 to 1989. Following her retirement from the judiciary, Neswood was elected as a delegate to the Navajo Nation Council, serving from 1991 to 1995.

Early life and education Neswood was born on May 24, 1932, and was originally from Crystal, New Mexico. Her father died when she was two years old. From the age of five, she assumed household responsibilities, including carrying water long distances and making bread. Her early career included roles with the Office of the Prosecutor and the Navajo Nation Police Department.

Neswood was appointed to the Crownpoint District Court and served as a judge for the Navajo Nation from 1976 to 1989.

After retiring from the judicial branch, Neswood was elected to the Navajo Nation Council. She served as the Council Delegate for the St. Michaels Chapter from 1991 to 1995.

Personal life She married Nelson Neswood of lower Greasewood, Arizona. The couple had eight children and lived in St. Michaels, Arizona, in a home built by her husband. In 1966, Neswood was involved in a car accident while returning from Albuquerque, New Mexico with several of her children. The vehicle ended up in an arroyo, but she survived. Her husband died approximately two years prior to December 1976. Neswood was a devout Catholic.

Neswood died on December 24, 2017, at the age of 85. Funeral services were held in late December 2017 at St. Michael Catholic Church and the St. Michael Indian School Chapel.