Thomas Ross Neyland

THOMAS ROSS NEYLAND, SR., age 92, went to Heaven on Saturday, June 9, 2012. He was born May 3, 1920, in Teague, Texas, to Wallace and Maude Johnson Neyland. Tom graduated from Paschal High School in Fort Worth, TX, in 1937, and attended and Rice Institute. He served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II as a 2nd Lt. Flight Instructor. After the war Tom moved to Milwaukee, WI, and flew for Trostal Tanneries as a corporate pilot. Eight years later he returned to Dallas, TX, and flew for Clint Murchison. In 1956, he moved to Houston and flew for Cockrell Oil for thirty-two years, until he retired in 1983. As a youngster, he soloed as a pilot at age 13, and at age 92, Tom was among the senior members at the following flying organizations: Quiet Birdmen (QB) since 1/1954, United Flying Octogenarians, and OX5 Aviation Pioneers.

In his later years Tom helped his son at Sterling Classic Homes, and enjoyed many friendships.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Pauline Neyland; and son-in-law, Jim King. He is survived by his daughter, Mindy L. King; son, Thomas Ross Neyland, Jr. and his wife Marilyn; and grandson, Tommy King.

Friends are invited to a visitation with the family from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, June 13, 2012, at The Settegast-Kopf Co. @ Sugar Creek, 15015 Southwest Freeway (Williams Trace Exit). Funeral Services will be held at 3:00 PM, Thursday, June 14, 2012, at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, 11612 Memorial Drive, Houston. A reception will follow the service in the church parlor.