Timothy James Neely

Timothy James Neely, age 71, of Nappanee, Indiana, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on August 25, 2025. He was born on August 27, 1953, in South Bend, Indiana, to James Francis Neely and Doris Marie Neely, and spent a life deeply devoted to his faith, his family, and his calling.

Tim was a man of tremendous heart, intellect, and humor. He served as the beloved Pastor of Bread of Life Church for many years, retiring in 2024. His ministry was not simply a profession-it was his passion. He poured himself into preaching, counseling, teaching, and walking alongside others in their spiritual journeys. His commitment to living out the Gospel in both word and action left a lasting impact on countless individuals within the church and beyond.

But even greater than his devotion to ministry was his devotion to his family. Tim was a proud and loving father to thirteen children.

Tim had a wide array of interests. He loved riding motorcycles, dirt-biking, and sailing. He treasured family vacations to Florida.

Even as life brought its hardships, including the profound losses of his wife, Cynthia Ann Neely, his daughter, Ruth Anne Neely, and grandchildren Tanner, Hudson, and Ellie, Tim held fast to his faith. He continued to lead and love through grief, setting an example of what it meant to trust in God through every season. His children and grandchildren witnessed firsthand what it looked like to walk by faith-his legacy will live on in them.

In honoring Tim's life, his family reflects with deep gratitude for the years they were blessed to walk alongside him. His family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and home with his Lord.

Timothy was preceded in death by his parents, James and Doris Neely; his wife, Cynthia; his daughter, Ruth Anne; three cherished grandchildren, Tanner, Hudson, and Ellie; and his brother-in-law, Gary Beecham.

He is survived by his children: Anne (Caleb) Chapman, Mike (Amanda) Neely, Dan (Melissa) Neely, Paul (Poppy) Neely, Mary (Gene) Zimmerman, John (Michelle) Neely, Tom (Megan) Neely, Beth (Michael) Pletcher, Jim (Reah) Neely, Dave (Cassie) Neely, Rebecca (Anthony) Menees, and Martha (Seth) Lemler. He is also survived by his siblings, Cathy Beecham, Connie (Jon) Adams, and Bonnie (Ed) Edwards, as well as fifty-nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and extended family members who loved him dearly.

A private burial will take place on Thursday, August 28, 2025.A public memorial service celebrating Timothy's life, legacy, and ministry will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Jimtown Community Center.

To leave a message for the family, please go to ChapelHillMemorial.com