Lilian Joyce McNeill

Lilian's life changed forever when she met the love of her life, Harley McNeill, who was serving in the United States Air Force. Their love story began with a simple act of flirtation at a casino when Harley handed her a gaming chip. That chance meeting blossomed into a lifetime of love, and the couple married in Kent, England. Together they embarked on a remarkable journey, living around the world as Harley's military career took them to various duty stations before eventually settling in Colorado, where they spent their final years together. Harley preceded Lilian in death in 2019 after many devoted years of marriage.

In her younger years, Lilian was a talented dancer whose grace and spirit stayed with her throughout her life. She later worked as a florist, combining her artistic eye with her deep love of flowers. She also generously gave her time as a volunteer at Longmont Hospital for many years, touching countless lives through her kindness and compassion.

Lilian embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. She loved traveling and treasured every opportunity to return to England to visit family, as well as visiting loved ones around the world. She enjoyed swimming well into her later years and never lost her sense of adventure. She also loved trying her luck at the casino, where the story of her own love had first begun.

A gifted artist and crafter, Lilian had a remarkable creative spirit. She loved painting and had a true talent for it. She also found joy in sewing, knitting, and creating beautiful things with her hands. One of her most cherished creations was a handcrafted dollhouse she lovingly built for her granddaughter; a lasting reminder of her patience, creativity, and love for her family.

Above all, Lilian was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who found her greatest happiness in the people she loved. She will be remembered for her warmth, adventurous spirit, creativity, and unwavering love for her family.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harley McNeill; her parents, David and Mary Nicol; and her siblings.

Lilian is survived by her daughter, Kelli Welch; her son, Ricky McNeill; her son-in-law, Patrick Welch; her grandchildren, Megan Bettin and her husband, Ryan Bettin, Jacob Welch, Sara McNeill, and Samantha McNeill; and her cherished great-granddaughter, Adelaide Bettin.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she has been reunited with Harley and those who went before her. Her legacy of love, resilience, kindness, and creativity will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.