Robert E. McNealy

Robert E. "Bob" McNealy, 87, of New Britain, PA passed away surrounded by family on January 8, 2026 at St. Luke's Grand View Hospital in Sellersville, PA, following a final bout with cancer after courageously fending off the disease for over 10 years.

Born in Doylestown, PA on December 14, 1938 to the late Robert and Eleanor (Brinker) McNealy, he was the eldest of three brothers including the late Thomas of Melbourne, FL and Terry of Holicong, PA. He graduated from Central Bucks High School (now CB West) before earning his bachelor's degree from Springfield College in Springfield, MA – the birthplace of basketball – where he would foster his lifelong love of the sport. Upon graduation he commenced a career in elementary physical education that spanned four decades from the early 1960s into the 21st century and touched countless young lives.

Bob had a love of all things outdoors, and could often be found sailing or riding his bike at Peace Valley Park. He instilled an early passion for camping and nature in his children, and was himself an Eagle Scout. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of tending his vegetable garden, caring for his lawn, breakfast with friends, feeding birds, and building a cozy winter fire. Bob was well-regarded in the local sports community as an intramural basketball referee, and also played recreationally himself into his 80s. Outside of his own athletic endeavors, he was a die-hard fan of Philadelphia sports, especially the Eagles, Sixers, and Phillies, and rarely missed watching a game. Above all, Bob was steadfastly loyal to his family and friends, and could always be counted on for a helping hand, warm company, and a gentle chuckle.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Beth (Garges); his four children and their spouses: Bruce and daughter-in-law Diane (Knepper) of Mount Pleasant, PA, Monika Boyd and son-in-law Mike of Cape Coral, FL, Brett of Somerville, MA, and Kyle and daughter-in-law Callais (Wolfe) of Menlo Park, CA; his brother Terry and his husband Gene Underwood; as well as 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren ranging in age from 7 months to 35 years.

A celebration of life will be held on April 25, 2026, at Pleasantville United Church of Christ in Chalfont, where visitation will be from 9:30-10:45 and Service at 11:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob's memory to the Tara Miller Melanoma Center at Penn Medicine: https://www.med.upenn.edu/TMMC/ways-to-give.html