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Armistead Neely Obituary
Armistead Neely "Armi", legendary Georgia and Florida tennis professional, served out his last match on March 7, 2024. Armi was a two-time All-American athlete at the University of Florida and still holds the unique record of never losing a SEC singles match. He was inducted into the UF Hall of Fame in 1969 and later inducted into the Georgia and Southern Halls of Fame.
Armi had a successful multi-year professional tennis career, playing at prestigious events such as Wimbledon, and the U.S., French and Australian Opens. He co-founded the WATCH Circuit (World Association of Tennis Champions) - the first men's tennis satellite tour that offered ATP points. All satellite circuits that followed trace back to that beginning.
Armi's career included competing, teaching and coaching. He played internationally into his seventies. His record stands for itself but more than a tally of wins and losses, Armi was a role model of positive leadership, determination and sportsmanship: a true gentleman.
Throughout the years Armistead had many great doubles partners, but on December 22, 1984, he married Alice Pendergrast, his best partner of all. Together they made Atlanta home and continued to travel the world. His great smile, sense of humor and generous spirit will be missed by all who knew him.
In addition to Alice, Armistead is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Neely; brother-in-law, Donald Pendergrast (Tracie); and sister-in-law, Caroline Pendergrast (Dennis Creech). He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Elizabeth Pendergrast (David Burghardt); and parents and parents-in-law, William A. C. Neely, Marjorie Lillie Neely, Ambrose H. Pendergrast and Helen S. Pendergrast.
The family will have a memorial service on April 15, at 1 PM, with reception immediately following at All Saints Episcopal Church, 634 W Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta GA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Armistead Neely University of Florida Tennis Endowment, Armistead Neely Tennis Endowment - University of Florida Advancement (ufl.edu). It is the first UF tennis endowment established by teammates and friends.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Armistead Neely
3 Entries
RICHARD BROWN
November 16, 2024
Armi, was a casual friend when I was an athlete at the University of Alabama. I played another sport at the University. Armi was always very kind and a great teacher. I just heard that he had passed away. He will be sadly miss by everyone who knew him. I am sorry for your loss.
Rob Castorri
October 19, 2024
Armi and Alice were one of the most wonderful couples on the senior tour and both demonstrated such class and grace in all they seemed to do. He was a wonderful doubles partner to have and a great ambassador for tennis. He has been missed. My condolences to Alice as it must be hard to have lost a best friend.
I will always remember the evening in South Carolina when Armi/Alice and another wonderful pro, George Amaya and his gracious and loving wife, Mary, shared a dinner at our condo while at the USPTA conference. One memorable moment of many.
Rob / Ann Castorri
John Gilbart
July 10, 2024
Dear friend, competitor, and doubles partner, I am deeply sorrowful to hear of your passing. Growing up in Tampa and St Pete we had many matches from ages 12 through 18 and then a couple more at Florida and Ga Tech. One a my favorite memories was our Jr Davis Cup trip to Mexico City where you took so many pictures as we visited historical sites and Aztec ruins. You were always dedicated to tennis and the sport is so much better off for your being there. Your doubles partner John Gilbart
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