James C. McNeely, Sr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a beloved husband and father, James "Jim" Chester McNeely, Sr.

Jim went home to be with Jesus on February 3, 2026.

Jim was born in Paxton, IL, on June 17, 1946, to Eugene Chester and Juanita June McNeely. He grew up in Dania, FL, where he met Angela, the love of his life. Together they built a marriage rooted in unconditional love, commitment and shared faith that span
for 64 years.

Jim was a proud, loving and dedicated father to his three children, James (Jimbo) C. McNeely Jr, residing in Palm Bay, FL; Michael E. McNeely, residing in Sunrise, FL; and Laura L. Packer (Todd) residing in Henderson, NC. He was also a wonderful and loving Grand/Great-Grandpa to Jimmy (Kim), Kiaya, Kaylee, Jason (Crystal), Kayla, Alex, Jonathan, Jordan, Stephen, Matthew (Karina), Isaiah, Isabelle, Alicia and Calum.

Jim was a master of all trades. He was dedicated and committed to working hard to provide and take care of his family. He was full of knowledge and wisdom that he was always willing to share. Jim was a true craftsman. He could repair, design and build just about anything, from woodworking to forging metal to painting on canvas.

Jim and Angela spent 44 years in Florida before settling in their forever home in Louisburg, NC; that Jim referred to as "his farm". They spent 20 years enjoying the adventures of living in the woods, experiencing wildlife and the change of seasons. Jim and Angela are members of Highest Praise Church in Louisburg. Jim was a faithful member and loved by all. He was blessed with so many friends and was a stranger to no one. He had a great sense of humor and was one of the greatest storytellers and always had a joke to tell!

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Chet and June McNeely and his sister, Carol Louise Hackett. He is survived by his lifelong beloved wife, Angela; his children; grand/great-grandchildren, and many more wonderful family members and friends.

Jim will be remembered by so many and loved and missed by all!
His legacy of love, integrity, courage, strength and devotion lives on in all who knew him.

'Celebration of Life' will be held on Saturday, March 7th @ 2 PM
Location: Highest Praise Church
162 HWY 56 E, Louisburg, NC 27549

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me".
-Philippians 4:13