Millard C. Neeley

Millard C. Neeley passed away on December 15, 2020 and has gone home to live with his Lord and Savior and is now rejoined with his beloved wife Wanda and his daughter Patricia and two sons, Mark and baby Michael in heaven.

He was 97 years young when he passed. He was a World War II veteran, a father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, friend and a member of Grace Brethren Church.

He leaves behind a long legacy. He was a beloved and devoted father to Carolyn (Mart) Pilla, David Neeley, Shirley (Wayne) Garrett, Donna Miller, Melinda (Kevin) Young, Janet St John and Teresa Neeley, daughter in law. He was preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Wanda B Neeley, and 3 of his children Patricia Tyler, Mark Neeley and baby Michael Neeley. He was a beloved grandfather of which his legacy includes 16 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 7 great, great grandchildren who all brought a light of love in his eyes and was loved back by all in kind.

Born March 13, 1923 in Manilla, Arkansas to hard working parents. He was a hero of the Greatest Generation, he proudly served in the United States Army Air Force in World War II as a gunner on B-17 bombers that flew daylight bombing raids over Germany during World War II. The missions, and his position and role on board the aircraft, made for highly hazardous duty – characterized by repeated exposure to fire from German fighter aircraft and land-based anti-aircraft weapons systems. He flew 35 of these combat missions – volunteering for well more than the 25 operations deemed the standard for a return home. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Wanda Bernice Jobe on July 8, 1945 and stayed by her side as a devoted husband until her passing in May of 2008, which was a remarkable 63 years. The strength that characterized this spirit and devotion served him well for the 97 years he lived.

He lived his life dedicated to his Christian faith and his love for his large and rambunctious family. His witty sense of humor and crazy antics will be a source of fond remembrance. Heaven will be blessed with his presence.

He was a moral compass for both his family and friends and will be missed on Earth. His children and grandchildren will miss him every day and will cherish the memories of him. Although it is hard for those left to say goodbye, he is gone but those in heaven are stating, “he is coming home.” We know he is now with his beloved sweetheart, our Mom and grandmother, and at peace with Jesus.