I met Fr. Harry in my freshman Latin class at Saints in 1956.  As with many of his students, he became  my model and mentor too, and remained so for the rest of his long, ever generous, and saintly life.  I particularly treasure the many times he found the time to welcome me back to talk about meaningful things.  Fr, Harry pray for me, as I know you do for all your students.

Fr. Neely drove miles to teach my brothers and me the Catechism at our home in Escondido in preparation for Confirmation. He was always available when I needed to talk. He gave me advice I still hold and transmit, especially on Catholic Apologetics. As a virtuous priest who is an example to us in these times, the good that he did continues to bear fruit and to give glory to Our Lord. Be assured of my prayers at Mass. Requiescat in pace.

Fr. Harry was the grandpa figure in my life that I always wanted. I have Mike Angarola to thank for introducing me to him.   

He taught and encouraged me so much.  We talked a lot about our love for Jesus and the new things we learned about life. 

I look forward to seeing him again. 
We love you, Fr. Neely!

Father nearly was a wonderful and holy priest, he baptized my four children, and was always an inspiration for our Catholic faith.  No one song more beautiful at the high Tridentine Mass than he.

Knowing Fr. Harry especially from his many years of service to the parishioners of St. Thomas Aquinas in Ojai, I just want to say thank-you for being the wise, patient, and understanding person that you were.  You truly lived a life loving and serving God and your fellow-man,  and your reward in heaven is now fulfilled.

Fr. Neely had a unique ability to be fully present and make you feel fully present  amidst his busy schedule. 

While I’ll certainly remember him for his intellectual and spiritual insights, I will also remember him for his practicality, such as when he explained that if you lent a book without a checkout card, you had actually gifted a book. 

So honored to have shared my first confession and communion, marriage, and the baptisms of our sons with you. Thank you for your spiritual guidance over the years. Love you Father Neely and will miss you dearly.

Fr. Neely embodied the love and compassion of our dear Lord and Savior in all of his actions and words. His selfless dedication to the Church and others through his faithful service will be so missed by those that remain here in his absence but his ministry will continue for eternity as he now will watch over us from above. Thank you for all you did for our family and the whole faith community. 

He was a king among men...with no honors or frills...the greatest generals, leaders, and presidents have nothing on him...his power lied in his kindness, humility, and intelligence.  A man completely in control and at peace with himself in a world of chaos and disappointment...a Christ among us.

Pretiosa in conspectu Domini mors sanctorum ejus.              

God in his goodness allowed my family to know Fr. Neely.    He was holy, generous, kind, and had a great sense of humor.  He was humble and strived to live his vows to perfection.  His joy at being home for Christmas is some comfort but his absence leaves a deep, dark spiritual void that cannot be filled.   

OBITUARY

Father Harry Neely, O.S.A

May 23, 1923 – December 16, 2020

Goodbody Mortuary

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