Robert W. Neil

The life of Robert Neil was real, abstract, and without rhyme. He was true to himself, and each decade of his life elucidated a new chapter in which he reinvented himself. He passed away at the age of 84 on February 12th, 2026, in Chesapeake, Virginia.

Robert W. Neil, affectionately known as “Bob” was born December 18th, 1941, in the Bronx, New York. He was the second born child of the late Eustace and Agnes Neil. He was also preceded in death by his sisters Hazel Gray, and Patricia Neil.

At the age of seventeen, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and achieved the rank of Airman First Class. He participated in Operation Dominic's Joint Task Force Eight in 1962 and was later recognized with a certificate commemorating his role. In 2020, he was further honored with the Atomic Veteran's Certificate for his contributions as an Atomic Veteran. His distinguished military career also earned him three medals for exemplary service.

Following his military tenure, Robert built a successful career with the New York City Transit Authority. After twenty-five years of dedicated work, he received numerous awards for his loyalty and commitment before retiring in 1990. A passionate advocate for workers' rights, Robert remained an active member of the Transit Workers Union Local 100 Retirees Association until his death.

Retirement gave Robert a second lease on life. A brilliant chess player and avid debater, he cherished intellectual pursuits and meaningful conversations. He read the newspaper daily, and could solve crossword puzzles and cryptograms in record time. He found comfort in sports, and had an enviable collection of Hess Trucks and music. He loved to take on projects, and in another life he would have authored the big, yellow, do-it-yourself book he always carried. He shared many memorable fishing trips with friends.

Known for his quiet yet caring nature and unique sense of humor, Robert left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Though the trials and tribulations of life hardened his exterior, love softened his interior with equal intensity. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his brother James Neil, his three children, Karen, Donna, and Robert Jr, and their mother Barbara Neil. He also leaves behind his niece Kim, and his nephews Chris and Shane, six grandchildren–Alexis, Anthony, Dakotah (Ray), Cassiel, Brenden, and Nicholas, and eight great grandchildren. Robert also leaves behind several friends, including Mike Stewart and Joe Mack.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to The Commonwealth Senior Living Facility at Cedar Manor, At-Heart Homecare & Hospice, J.T. Fisher Funeral Services.