David Harold Neely, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, October 25, 2026. David was 87. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, adventure, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family.
David was born on December 8, 1938, in Bainbridge, Georgia, to Sue Downing and Wallace Neely. Soon after, the family relocated to New Smyrna Beach, Florida where David and his four sisters, Bobbie, Nina, Judy and Susie, grew up. David was intelligent, athletic and made many lifelong friends in New Smyrna Beach, where he graduated high school in 1956.
A gifted student, David earned a scholarship to the University of Florida, where he studied Industrial Engineering and graduated in 1960. A proud Florida Gator throughout his life, he remained a passionate supporter of Gator athletics and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer for his alma mater.
David enjoyed a long and successful career in engineering and manufacturing. He worked for Dairymen of America, managing production facilities in Florida through the 1960s and ’70s. During those early years, he was married and welcomed two daughters and two sons. The 1980s brought substantial changes, including marriage to his dear wife Jan and by extension, a stepson and stepdaughter. In 1981, David was promoted to Vice President of Dairyman Inc., which saw the family relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. In 1990, he was offered an executive position with Bryce Foods which moved the family to Dallas, Texas. Never one to shy away from a challenge, David founded his own industrial design company in 1998. The business flourished, fueled by his ingenuity, determination, and passion for solving problems. He remained actively involved in his work until just one month before his passing.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, David embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved golf, travel, and exploring the world, visiting every continent except Antarctica. He enjoyed gathering with friends and family, dancing, sharing stories, and bringing laughter wherever he went. Blessed with remarkable mechanical ability, David could fix almost anything and maintained a tool collection that family members joked could rival Home Depot.
Above all else, David cherished his family. Affectionately known as “Pappy,” he found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved. His wisdom, generosity, humor, and steadfast support touched generations.
David is survived by his devoted wife, Jan Virginia Neely (née Ferris); his sons, David, Jeffery, and Kristopher; his daughters, Deborah, Karen, and Jennifer; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Funeral Service is scheduled on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Quinn-Shalz Funeral Home in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.
David’s life was a testament to perseverance, curiosity, and love. His memory will live on in the lives he touched, the family he treasured, and the stories that will be shared for years to come.
Please visit his Tribute online at www.quinn-shalz.com.
