James Pinckney Neely Jr.

Born and raised in Rock Hill, S.C., Jim was a standout athlete and member of the Glee Club at Rock Hill High School. After graduation, he accepted a full scholarship to play football at the University of South Carolina. He was also in the Naval ROTC and a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. After college, he married Jane Wardlaw McIntyre of Rowland, N.C. on June 19th, 1955. After living in Charlottesville, Va. and Columbia, S.C., they settled in Charlotte in 1971. Jim worked for General Tire and Rubber Company and rose to the position of Southeast Zone Manager, and was awarded the president’s award for outstanding salesmanship. He was active in the North Carolina Motor Carriers Association, where he served as Pinehurst convention chairman and a member of the board of directors.

Jim has been an active member of Carmel Baptist Church since 1971. He served there in many capacities, but is known most as a front door greeter to everyone, with an infectious smile and a witty, most often sarcastic comment. It was often said of Jim that if he did not “mess” with you, he did not like you. He was also formerly the superintendent of Sunday school, deacon, coffee maker and a faithful member of the choir.

Jim was mostly known as a loving and caring family man. He would have celebrated 60 years of marriage to Jane, the love of his life, this June 19th. He was a dedicated father of two sons, Jamie and Joey, who were by his side all the way to the end. He was always a leader, mentor to them and was always a part of their sports and activities growing up, and their family activities later in life. He also loved anything and everything Gamecock.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jane Neely; two children, Jamie Neely (Leigh Ann), Joey Neely (Kathy) all of Charlotte; six grandchildren, Whitney Johnson (Matt) of Troutman, James Neely (Brittany), Joseph Neely, Morgan Neely, Madison Neely and Mac Neely, all of Charlotte; three beloved great-grandchildren, Grace, Ella and Peyton; brother, Joe Neely of Florence, S.C.; and nephews, Sam of Florence, S.C. and Charlie (Kelly) of Mt. Pleasant, S.C.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Newton Neely.

The funeral service to celebrate his life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at Carmel Baptist Church. The family will greet friends from 10-10:45 am prior to the service. Private burial in Rowland, NC will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Carmel Baptist Church Benevolent Fund.