Rev. Kenneth McNeely

Marion- Rev. Kenneth L. McNeely, 83, of Marion went to be with the Lord at 3:06 am on Saturday March 5, 2005 at his residence with his family by his side. Rev. McNeely was born December 22, 1921 at Lake of Egypt, IL to Lawrence A. and Ruth Albright McNeely. He married Dorothy Harris on April 14, 1951 in Piggott, Ark. She survives in Marion. Rev. McNeely pastored for 60 years in ministry. He retired from Freeman 6 Coal Mine in 1986, where he was known as Preach. He was a WWII Army Veteran and served under General Patton. Survivors Include- Wife- Dorothy (Harris) McNeely- Marion, IL 2 Daughters- Emily and Don Eldridge- Marion, IL Mary and Mike Lee- Dallas, TX 1 son- Kevin and Carla McNeely- Marion, IL 5 grandchildren-Gretchen Eldridge Tanya Lee and Scott Miller Benjamin Eldridge Andrew and Stephanie Lee Jonas McNeely 3 great grandchildren-Michaela and Payton Miller Caleb Lee 1 brother- Gene and Pat McNeely-Marion, IL 1 sister- Reba Blumenstock- Marion, IL Several nieces and nephews Preceded in death by his parents and 2 sisters, Shirley Travelstead and Alice Mae Taylor Rev. Kenneth McNeely will be sadly missed by his family and friends, leaving behind a suitcase of memories. He fought a good fight, finished the course, kept the faith....He was our hero! Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion has been entrusted with arrangements. Funeral services will be Tuesday March 8, 2005 at 10:00am at the Spillertown Baptist Church. The service will be officiated by Rev. McNeelys family. Burial will follow at the McKinney Chapel Cemetery with Military Rites performed by Marions VFW Post 1301 and American Legion 147. Visitation will be held from 5-9pm on Monday March 7, 2005 at the Spillertown Baptist Church. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or Camp Jericho. For more information, or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com