SMITHFIELD - Donald Gene Neely, 75, passed away Saturday, July 09, 2016, after a short illness. Born in Salem, WV, Donald was the son of the late George Willard and Frances J. Tierney Neely. He had made his home in Smithfield since 1989. A graduate of the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School, Don worked as a mechanical engineer and retired as a master shipbuilder from the shipyard after 41 years of service. He was past-president of Chapter #217, Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and past-president of the Mariner's Club, and was a member of the Propeller Club. Don was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother. He will be sorely missed by wife of 29 years, Barbara Johnson Neely; three sons, Jeffrey A Neely and his wife, Sheri, Brian D. Neely and his wife, Roberta, and Blane Christlieb; three grandchildren, Lexie, Carter, and Max; brother, Joe Neely and his wife, Patricia; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. He will be remembered as an accomplished woodworker and craftsman, an avid baseball fan, and avid gardener. Don enjoyed travel and cruised to the French Polynesian Islands, Canada/Nova Scotia, Mexico, and the Caribbean. He was a faithful member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. He frequently volunteered for projects with the Christian Outreach Program and community service organizations. Family and friends will gather 6:30 -8:00 pm, Wednesday, July 13, 2016 for visitation in Colonial Funeral Home, Carrollton. A service celebrating Donald's life will be held 2:00 pm, July 14, in St. Andrew's Episcopal Church with the Rev. David W. Perkins officiating. Burial will follow at 3:30pm in St. Luke's Memorial Park, Smithfield. The family suggests memorial contributions be made in Donald/s memory to St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 45 Main Street, Newport News, VA 23601. Service arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, Carrollton, VA. Family and friends are encouraged to share condolences and remembrances at colonialfuneralhomesmithfield.com.
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2 Entries
Brian I am so sorry to learn of the death of your father. Please know that Tommy and I pray you will find comfort in your memories and peace through your faith.
--TJ and Tommy Baskerville
July 19, 2016
Brian and Roberta- my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time. Please let me know if there's anything I can do for you Much love -Kelly
Kelly Wing
July 12, 2016
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