Dennie Frank McNeely, Jr.

Dennie Frank McNeely lived a life defined by quiet strength, fierce independence, and a heart that gave without hesitation. Born in Atlanta, Georgia and raised in Wayne County, Georgia, Dennie graduated from Wayne County High School and soon after answered the call to serve his country as a United States Marine. That sense of duty and loyalty remained with him always.

A longtime resident of Savannah, Georgia, Dennie built his life with grit and grace. He was a self-made man, founding American Landscape Services and growing it from the ground up. With calloused hands and relentless work ethic, he transformed ordinary spaces into works of care and intention. He believed that he was helping God make the earth more beautiful. But more than building yards, Dennie built people. He offered jobs, clothing, food, and dignity to those who needed a second chance, never expecting anything in return.

Though he had no children of his own, Dennie’s love for his family was constant and deep. He is survived by his sisters Denise Griffis and her husband Danny, and Donna Hargraves, whose husband Robert preceded Dennie in death.

He leaves behind his nieces and nephews Chae Clark, Jordan Wasdin and her husband Howard Blake, and Drew Griffis. His legacy continues through his great-nieces and nephews Schyler Clark, Ava Clark, Tripp Harvey, and Banks Wasdin.

Dennie lived his faith in action. A devoted member of his church and his community, he was always the one to show up quietly with what was needed most. He helped where others hesitated. He gave without needing praise. One of the greatest chapters of Dennie’s life was his journey with sobriety. As a dedicated member of Alcoholics Anonymous, he not only reclaimed his own life but helped countless others do the same. He sponsored those who were struggling and became a guiding light for many who had nearly lost hope.

Dennie is preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Frank McNeely, whom he now joins in eternal peace. He leaves behind a trail of good deeds, lives touched, and people forever changed by his generosity and grit. He didn’t need recognition to make a difference. He just did the work, showed up for others, and gave people something to believe in again.

He was one of the good ones. The kind you don’t forget.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Gamble Funeral Service in Savannah, Georgia on July 26, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Father Gabe Cummings officiating.