MR. LEONARD C. NEELY JR.

EARLY LIFE & EDUCATION

Leonard was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to L.C. Neely Sr. and Imogene Neely. After graduating from Lincoln High School, he joined the U.S. Army, where he served as a cook and honed the culinary skills that would later become legendary within his family. A lifelong learner and staunch proponent of education, he attended several colleges and universities in pursuit of higher learning.

FAMILY & THE GREAT MIGRATION

His path shifted when he married the love of his life, Zelma Young-Neely, andtogether they had three daughters. In 1960, seeking opportunity, the young Family moved to Chicago as part of the Great Migration. Leonard navigated the complex social changes of that era-including "White Flight-with perseverance,

education, and an unwavering "can-do" attitude.

A DEVOTED FATHER

Leonard was a devoted "girl dad" who created a home centered on excellence, education, and a strong work ethic. He believed in a warm, nourishing start to the day, preparing hearty breakfasts and meals that prepared his daughters for school. He actively invested in their education, making surprise visits to their grammar and high schools to ensure they met and exceeded expectations.

CAREER & COMMITMENT

He secured a stable government job with the U.S. Post Office, retiring at 55, and later worked for the City of Chicago at the Harold Washington Library. Although he and Zelma divorced in the early 1970s, they remained close, committed co-parents and friends. Their blended family dynamic was a model of grace and unity long before the term became common. In her later years, when Zelma was stricken with early Alzheimer's, Leonard became her primary caregiver, determined to keep her in her home.

LEGACY & VALUES

Leonard was a constant reader who never met a newspaper he didn't like. A man of quiet strength and deep values, he believed that a solid work ethic and education were the keys not just to survival, but to truly living. His legacy is one of resilience, devotion, and an abiding love for his family.

SURVIVING FAMILY

Leonard is survived by his three daughters; Donna Neely, Patrice Neely-White, and Lynn Smalls (Vernon); two grandchildren, Jermaine C. Neely and Shenee' Hayes-Hill (Anthony Hill); and two great-grandchildren, Quentin Hayes and Jaycein Sears and his sister Claudia Clark (Edward). He is also survived by cherished nieces and nephews, including LaDonna Lavender, Letta, Maya and Christopher Neely, RandyRhodes, and Darryl and Eiann Wilson. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Ronald Neely (Dena), and sistes, Carole Williams.(Clint) and Lavondia Neely.

His work ethic, love, and wisdom live on in the bloodline.

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