KENT—James C. Neill, a longtime Kent resident, died Monday, May 20, 2024. Jim was born on June 24, 1935, to James and Josephine (McCabe) in the Bronx, NY. He was the eldest of five brothers: John, Joseph, Michael, Bernard, and Francis. His life was a testament to love and family values.
Raised in Bayside, NY, he lived above O’Neill’s Bar, which his parents owned and operated on Bell Blvd. He learned the importance of hard work and integrity from his parents, and especially from his mother as he helped her raise his brothers and run O’Neill’s after his father’s passing when he was 9 years old.
Growing up, Jim had a passion for sports, especially baseball, and pursued it along with his studies. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, NY, he majored in accounting at St. John’s University and later earned his MBA from Hofstra University. He became a partner at McGladrey & Pullen, LLP, in New York City. Jim also served his country in the Army Reserves.
He met Gail Leonard at the Ocean Club in Atlantic Beach, NY, and in 1961, Jim and Gail married, and together raised six children: James Neill, Deborah McCavitt, Christine Fouts, Maureen Karle, John Neill, and Colleen Overlock. He was also a devoted Pop Pop to 14 grandchildren.
In 1970, Jim and Gail settled in Kent, where they found happiness as part of the Kent community. He loved the changing seasons, particularly the vibrant colors of the fall foliage. He enjoyed hiking and cross-country skiing in Macedonia State Park. He loved to watch his kids play sports and cheer them on. In his retirement, he enjoyed playing golf and tennis and supporting his community as the treasurer of the Kent Land Trust. Gail and Jim spent their summers enjoying time with friends and family at Sun and Surf Beach Club.
He was a devout Catholic who lived a life of faith. His greatest legacy was his commitment to family. The love he shared with his wife, brothers, children and grandchildren was unbounded. While he will be deeply missed, his spirit will forever inspire us to cherish and prioritize our loved ones, holding family and friends close.
There will be calling hours on Friday, May 24, at Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge St., New Milford, from 3 to 7 p.m. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, May 25, at the Sacred Heart Church in Kent at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to The Kent Land Trust (www.kentlandtrust.org/donate) or the Kent Volunteer Fire Department (www.kentfire.org/giving).
