James "Melvin" McNeill Sr, age 89, passed away on Saturday, February 21st.

Melvin was born November 22, 1936, in Lee County NC to the late Johnny and Rosie McNeill. Church, faith, prayer and the Bible were integral to Melvin's life. He was active in the church in Bakersville, NC where he lived for many years singing in the choir and teaching the Senior Men's Sunday School class. He treasured his relationship with Jesus Christ and following arranging for the purchase of the first used school bus at Northwood Temple in Fayetteville, NC, he served in the bus ministry for years transporting children to church.

Melvin is survived by his children, James M. McNeill Jr, of Canton, Georgia; Jeanne M. Butler (Ronald), of Fayetteville, NC; and Chad B. Slagle (Gina), of Deep Gap, NC; five grandchildren, Michael McNeill (Kristyn), Sarah Stricker (Matthew), Joshua Butler, Corbin Slagle, Brynn Slagle and four great grandchildren, Alex McNeill, Aulani Sticker, Gabrielle Stricker, and Tobias James Stricker.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marica McNeill, his brothers, Allan McNeill, Thomas McNeill, Eugene McNeill, Grayson McNeill, and sister Ozel McNeill.

A graveside service will be held on March 7th at 11 am at Bakersville Memorial Cemetery, Bakersville, NC.