Francis Henry Neff

Francis Henry Neff, 80, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025, in Sanford, Florida. Born on August 16, 1944, in Davenport, Iowa, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, devoted service, and deep love for his family and community.

Henry graduated from high school in Albia, Iowa, before pursuing his calling in ministry. He earned his Bachelor of Ministry degree from the Midwestern School of Evangelism in Ottumwa, Iowa. His passion for sharing the gospel led him to serve as a minister with the Church of Christ for over 25 years. During that time, he ministered in Oskaloosa and Council Bluffs, Iowa, where he became a spiritual guide to many and left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Throughout his ministry, Henry was especially dedicated to youth outreach. He developed a thriving bus ministry and spent numerous summers at church camps and revivals across several states. His commitment to nurturing young hearts and minds led to the baptism of hundreds into Christ. Later in life, he continued to lead and attend adult Bible classes and remained a bold witness for Jesus Christ until his final days.

After retiring from full-time ministry, Henry transitioned into a new chapter as a real estate appraiser. He founded NRH Appraisal Associates and brought the same integrity and diligence to his business endeavors that had defined his pastoral work.

Henry’s personal life was rich with love and joy. He is survived by his beloved wife Shirley Neff; daughters Tami Nelson, Lori Neff, Juli (Jeff) Radcliff, and Kristi (Andy) Corley; grandchildren Tyler (Kasside) Radcliff, Alexandria Corley, Clayton Nelson, Drew Corley, Carter Radcliff, Kaitlyn Corley, and Brady Radcliff; sister Jule Loy Gray; brothers Ronald Carter and David (Carmen) Carter; sisters-in-law Linda Neff and Sharon (Ted) Stolz; brother-in-law Lyman (Lori) Lalk; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Frank Neff; mother Eloha Marie Carter; father- and mother-in-law Dewey and Mildred Lalk; brother Ken Neff; sisters Becky Caddell and Bonnie Gary; and grandson Zachary Nelson.

Henry was a man dedicated to his family. His wife and four girls were his pride and joy. Priceless memories were created as they ventured on countless family vacations across the country in their 15-passenger van and pop up camper. Weekends were spent watching films and playing games, a tradition he passed down to his girls and grandchildren. He also was present at all events they were involved in. He was often seen at school choir and band concerts and attended almost every volleyball, baseball, basketball, football, and soccer game for his girls and grandchildren as well as nieces and nephews. He and Shirley also invested in the lives of, and left a lasting impression on, many foster children for over 15 years.

Henry found great joy in simple pleasures—camping under open skies with loved ones or cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes. In earlier years he enjoyed bowling and hiking with dear friends at Ross Lake in Wyoming. These hobbies reflected his appreciation for fellowship and the beauty of God’s creation. He learned the skill of carpentry early in his life and had a hand in helping build churches. He passed on many skills to his sons-in-law helping them with countless projects over the years.

In recent years, Henry and Shirley made their winter home in Casselberry, Florida. There they continued their shared journey of faith while enjoying time together during the final chapter of his life.

A man of deep conviction and gentle strength, Henry touched thousands through his ministry and daily walk with Christ. His legacy lives on through those he baptized into faith, mentored through scripture studies, or simply inspired by example.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may we carry forward the light he so faithfully shared.

The family would be honored to have you join them as they remember Henry at a memorial service on Saturday August 30, 2025 at 2 pm. The service will be held at First Christian Church Council Bluffs, 20794 Hwy 92 Council Bluffs, IA. The family will receive guests for a visitation one hour prior to the service. Please bring memories to share at a fellowship time following the service with light refreshments. In lieu of flowers, the family will direct donations to contribute towards the shower house replacement project at Sharon Bluff Bible Camp.