Born on April 14, 1945, in Dublin, Georgia
Passed on August 29, 2025 in Melbourne, Florida
Captain James W. Neill, age 80, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, at St. Francis Reflections Hospice in Melbourne, Florida.
Born on April 14, 1945, in Dublin, Georgia, Jimmy grew up with a love for fishing, sailing, and aviation. After completing his education, he pursued a career that reflected his passion for technology and flight, becoming a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army. He also had a deep interest in HAM radio, belonging to several clubs and participating in events like Field Day. Jim enjoyed conversing with people from around the world and made many lasting friendships.
Captain Neill served honorably in the United States Army from 1964 to 1974, including active duty in Vietnam and later in the Army National Guard. As a helicopter pilot flying Chinooks and Hueys, he demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery. He often flew unarmed Medivac missions into enemy territory, showing extraordinary courage. His military decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Expert Badge (M-16, .45 Pistol), Sharpshooter Badge (M-14), Army Aviator Badge, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Silver Star and 1 Bronze Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960 Device, Air Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal of Valor, and three Overseas Service Bars.
Jimmy is survived by his three daughters and five grandchildren, who remember him as a devoted father and grandfather. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde W. Neill and Katherine Gust Neill of Georgia.
Known for his courage, generosity, and sense of humor, Jimmy left a lasting impact on everyone he met. His love of flight, the outdoors, and storytelling inspired many. Everyone he met was a friend, someone to share a story or a joke with.
A private military service will be held to honor Captain Neill’s life and service. His daughters wish to thank the entire staff at St. Francis and Cleveland Clinic in Vero Beach for their support, and to Dad’s friends for their love and kindness.
Captain Neill’s legacy of bravery, kindness, and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Francis Reflections Hospice in Melbourne, Florida, in his memory: St. Francis Reflections Hospice
7 entries.
ED HULSEY
from Lawrenceville, GA wrote on September 9, 2025:
Jimmy and I spent a lot of time together back in our high school days at Crisp County High School, we graduated in 1963.
Stephanie Altman Mader
from Brantley County Georgia wrote on September 8, 2025:
Although 15 years separated us in age we remained in communication over all of these years. Was even blessed to meet him at Granny's old home back in June. I never thought it possible to travel back in time. But we did. Talked the past year about every other day. Sometimes every day. Talking about memories, sharing our love, and having deep spiritual conversations. He remained heroic, humble, straight forward and hilarious to the end on earth. 2 hour calls... up until he couldn't even respond by text at the end on earth and on to JESUS. ✝️ From the time I can remember as a child, he was my HERO. 🇺🇲
See you again one day Jimmy, for Eternity.
I love you.
Keeping Lisa, Trish, Nichole and Family in my heart, thoughts and prayers.
Patricia Neill
wrote on September 8, 2025:
Thank you family and friends for your love and support. Dad will be missed.
Ray Gruetzner
from Tyler wrote on September 8, 2025:
Jim and I were "hootch-mates in the 48th AHC in Vietnam. We were both aircraft commanders so we didn't fly together except for one night during a mortar attack. He was a good friend and we talked regularly on the phone. Jim has made his final flight. Happy landing Jim.
Jim Gower
from Trent Woods N C wrote on September 8, 2025:
My sincere condolences to you girls and grandkids.
I met Jimmy several years ago when he came to New Bern to buy a sailboat.
Right off the bat we bonded, by having interests in Sailing and war stories from Nan. Next day we surveyed the boat and later Jimmy made the deal. Never forgot the day he sailed out of New Bern as it was cold and according to Jimmy, he didn’t thaw out til he made Florida , some several days later.
Always talked regularly, always wanting to hook up and go sailing, but time and distance was always the bump in the road.
He has now crossed the bar and headed for open water, free from pain with a smooth wind at his back.
I’ll remember him each time I go out onto the Pamlico River and will unite in sprit with him on the water.
RIP Captain.
Nichole Neill & James Burlingame
from Charlton wrote on September 8, 2025:
Rest in peace, daddy. Oh Captain, My Captain!
Patricia Neill
wrote on September 8, 2025:
Dear family and friends,
Please share your memories of Dad and pass along the link to this memorial page to anyone we may have missed.
Miss you, Dad ❤️
Born on April 14, 1945, in Dublin, Georgia
