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Neil Alan Whitehead, affectionately known as “Chico,” passed away peacefully at the age of 66 after a courageous five-year battle with multiple myeloma. A lifelong resident of Quincy, Neil was a familiar and beloved presence in the community, especially at Merrymount Park, fondly referred to as “The Mount.”
Born to the late Robert and Nancy (Hood) Whitehead, Neil was a proud graduate of North Quincy High School, Class of 1976, and went on to earn his degree from Bunker Hill Community College in 1978. He dedicated over three decades of service to the U.S. Postal Service as a trusted letter carrier at the Kenmore and Wollaston Post Offices, where he became well-known not just for his reliability but for his warm, friendly nature.
Neil had a deep love for the simple joys in life: bike rides, long walks, and music that stirred the soul, from classic rock to country. He was a passionate Boston Bruins fan and an enthusiastic concert-goer. His heart extended to all creatures great and small, but he had a special place in it for cats. Known for remembering the names of every cat along his postal route, Neil had a special fondness for his wife Elaine's three cherished felines.
Neil is survived by Elaine Mortali of East Walpole and her extended family, as well as his devoted sister and brother-in-law, Gail and Ed Butler. He was deeply grateful for the lifelong friendships that endured from his school days and the unwavering support they provided through his illness. Neil’s humor, resilience, and gentle spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. His footsteps may no longer echo through Quincy’s streets, but his memory will walk with us forever.
The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to the exceptional oncology teams at Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston and South Weymouth, and the compassionate caregivers at the Old Colony Dr. Ruth McLain Hospice House in Braintree. Your care and kindness made a profound difference.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 4-8 PM in the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., QUINCY. Burial will be private.
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Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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