William M "Bill" McNeill

William M "Bill" McNeill obituary, Wilmington, NC

William M "Bill" McNeill

William McNeill Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 19, 2024.
William "Bill" Murchison McNeill, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on May 16, 2024 at the age of 96. Born on August 27, 1927, Bill lived a life of dedication, service, and unwavering love for his family and country.

Bill's distinguished military career began in the United States Navy, where he served from 1945 to 1949. After his Navy service he continued his commitment to his country by enlisting in the United States Army in 1950. Over the next 19 years, Bill served as a military police officer, rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class (NCO E7) before retiring in 1969.

During his Army tenure, Bill fought bravely in the Korean and Vietnam Wars and was a respected member of the military police. His exemplary service was recognized with numerous awards, including the National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge, and the Korean Service medal with Bronze Service Star.

After his military service, Bill worked at General Electric for 20 years. On his downtime he enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing and hunting.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Bill was known for his deep love and devotion to his family. He is survived by his wife Valentina "Tina" McNeill to whom he was married for 48 years. Children, Brenda Grimsley, Wanda Truett, Cindy Grimsley, Steve Cano, and Randy Grimsley, a nephew Gene Boyette, and several grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by four sisters, one brother, three children, and two grandchildren.

Bill's legacy extends beyond his family; he was a great friend and confidant to many. His generosity, wisdom, and warm spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew him. His life was a testament to courage, service, and love. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The American Legion Post 10 on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 1 pm.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign William McNeill's Guest Book

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May 25, 2024

Terry Shepard posted to the memorial.

May 19, 2024

Debbie Langston posted to the memorial.

May 19, 2024

Larry Murray posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Terry Shepard

May 25, 2024

Tina and family: I am so sorry to hear that Bill passed. He was a fine gentleman and a hard worker. He was such a faithful blood donor helping to save some many lives in his life time. Keeping your family in ours prayers. Terry Shepard

Debbie Langston

May 19, 2024

Mr. Bill was a neighbor in Devon Park in Wilmington, also a co worker of my Mom at GE. He was a fishing Buddy of my Dad's. He always had a laugh and a joke. Now he is in heaven along with his family members and My Mom and Dad. He always called me Missy. Heaven gained a wonderful ray of Sunshine. He will be missed

Larry Murray

May 19, 2024

Not only did we work together at GE, but we also shared a passion for hunting. Bill and I had many great hunts together and I will always be grateful for the times we shared, and also for his kindness to my 10 year old daughter that liked to tag along with "Uncle Bill".

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Sign William McNeill's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 25, 2024

Terry Shepard posted to the memorial.

May 19, 2024

Debbie Langston posted to the memorial.

May 19, 2024

Larry Murray posted to the memorial.