James J. Neel

James J Neel passed away on August 8, 2024 after a 3 month battle against the effects of a stroke.
James Neel was born on October 24, 1946, to Emmett and Ella Jay Neel, of Nocona, Texas. A sister, Kathy, soon followed and the family settled in Fort Worth, Texas. James attended school in Fort Worth where his gregarious personality flourished, particularly at Carter Riverside High School. James excelled socially and academically in high school, being voted in as a cheerleader, nurturing the strong political activism that would be a passion throughout his life, and making some of the closest lifelong friends he would have throughout his school years.
James attended Texas Wesleyan University and the University of Texas at Arlington before earning his law degree from the University of Texas at Austin. James worked as a movie projectionist alongside his father for many years during this time, helping foster his lifelong love for Hollywood and movies. James then partnered with a friend and fellow attorney, David Horton, and spent his career helping people of lesser means navigate their legal issues. He provided a service to those who couldn't always afford it, something which never made him wealthy, but from which he derived much personal pride and satisfaction.
James had a son, Nick, with his partner, Diane Rainone, in 1982 and he would dedicate much of his time after that to being a dad, making sure that no matter what happened in his life, he would have a good relationship with his son. He loved being present and involved in Nick's school years, particularly as a band dad and band booster while Nick was at Paschal High School. James enjoyed it so much that he remained a band booster and volunteer for years after, providing a friendly mentor for another generation of students.
James would want to be remembered for his passions. He was an avid and extraordinarily knowledgeable film fan and could tell you stories on stories about actors, movies, directors, Hollywood, and almost any aspect of the film industry. He particularly loved scary movies, a passion he passed on to his son. He was also extremely politically active. He cared deeply about environmental issues, minority issues, woman's rights, the LGBTQ+ community, and animal rights. He was an activist throughout his life. He also took great pride in his Irish heritage and was a regular attendee of the North Texas Irish Festival. Above all though, he cared about his family. He took care of his mother in her final years, maintained connections to many cousins and other relatives, and always put his son first.
James was preceded in death by father, James Emmett Neel; mother, Ella Jay Paschall Neel Tubbs; sister, Kathy Neel Gentry; and brother-in-law, Floyd Gentry; as well as many cousins, Aunts, and Uncles. He is survived by his son, Nicholas Anthony Neel Rainone; his daughter-in-law Jessi Rainone; the mother of his son, Diane Rainone; as well as many cousins with whom he kept in touch.
Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 12 noon, at St. Luke's in The Meadow Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, preceded by a casual reception at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to his church, St. Luke's at the website https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7VGXG24LQ77TC, or the Harris/Walz campaign.