Neil was a hardworking man who worked as a timber cruiser after attending NC State. He started his own business, Southeastern Forestry, and found great joy in the nature and animals on the family farm. One of his favorite pastimes was growing roses for his Momma. He had a special love for bulldozers and tractors and never met a piece of equipment he didn’t admire.

 

Over the last two years, he endured a nightmare of illness, yet he fought with strength and determination every single day. Even during his hardest moments, he was more concerned about others than himself, always asking how someone else was doing before ever speaking of his own struggles. He spent his life supporting anyone who needed a helping hand, and the outpouring of love shown to him over these past two years was truly astounding.

 

Today, he is whole again — walking the streets of Heaven and reunited with his Momma and Daddy, his Grandma, Ken, and so many loved ones who went before him. His body had grown tired, and he was ready to meet his Lord and Savior. He was surrounded by friends and family until the very end.

 

He is survived by his sisters, Penny Grainger and husband Alan, and Belinda Willis and husband Gary; his niece, Nikki Wood and husband Brooks and great niece Amelia; aunt, Pam Strickland and husband Gerald; uncles, Charles Blackman and Dwight Blackman and wife Bonnie; along with many beloved cousins. He is also survived by special friends, Lisa and Alannah Cain, who faithfully remained by his side until the end. We would like to thank everyone for the love and friendship and hard work during his illness..

 

A graveside service will be held Monday June 1st at 3:00pm at 321 Meadow Oak Ln, (Rackley Family Cemetery) Clinton NC 28328