James Michael Neely

Jim was born on August 11, 1939 in Queens, New York, the son of James and Violet Neely. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1961 and received his commission into the United States Army the same year. In a distinguished career spanning 22 years, he received a Master of Science degree from North Dakota State University and served in the U.S. Army Environmental Hygiene Agency in Thailand, Panama, Germany, South Korea, Texas, and Georgia. His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (3 awards), the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit. Jim retired from active duty at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 1983.

Following retirement, Jim continued his involvement with the environment and public health by serving as a consultant to the Department of Defense and becoming a Master Gardener. In his second career, he joined the Emory University Medical School’s Environmental Health and Safety Department to focus on environmental research and practice. After a second retirement in 2000, Jim became a volunteer deputy with the Dawson County Georgia Sheriff’s Department, serving 15 years in that capacity.

Beyond his many careers, Jim will be remembered as a kind and devoted husband, father, brother, stepfather, and grandfather. In his beloved North Georgia mountains, he shared his passion for the environment with friends and family, especially the grandchildren. He had a wonderful gift of dispensing the funniest facts with the straightest face. Nicknamed PandaPa by his grandchildren, Jim patiently explained American history, rock identification, animal management, and law enforcement to them, while sharing wisdom, clear thinking, and open-mindedness.

Jim is survived by his wife of 43 years, Ann M. English, daughter Eilene Floyd (Stephen), stepchildren: Anita McGahan (Sarah Kaplan), William McGahan (Lisa), Martin McGahan (Kasey), brother Stephen Neely (Kathy), grandchildren Kaitlin Floyd, Erin Botto, Sara McGahan, Katie McGahan, Billy McGahan, Morgan McGahan, Sophie McGahan, Emma Riley McGahan, and great-grandson Rowan Botto.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, with burial to follow at the Georgia National Cemetery, Canton GA.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Pebblebrook at Park Springs for their dedicated and loving care. In lieu of flowers, please remember the Employee Fund, Pebblebrook at Park Springs, 5610 Bermuda Road, Stone Mountain GA 30087.