It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth Eugene McNeely, a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, who left this world on April 25, 2025, at the age of 76. He was born on September 2, 1948, at Saunder’s Hospital in Avon, Illinois, the son of William H. McNeely and Helen L. (Dickason) McNeely. Kenny’s vibrant spirit touched the lives of many.
He is lovingly remembered by his surviving family: his daughter, Karen D. McNeely Yocks (Brian); his son, K. Brett McNeely; and his grandchildren, Madison and Jacob Yocks. Kenny is also survived by his brothers, Garry McNeely (Pat) and Russell McNeely, and his sisters, Mary Buffum and Beverly Head.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Nancy Underwood; sister-in-law, Gloria McNeely and brother-in-law, Dale Head.
Kenny was educated in the Bushnell Prairie City schools, graduating in 1966. He served in the United States Army in 1968 and bravely dedicated 15 months to his country during the Vietnam War as a member of Company C, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division.
Kenny dedicated his life to agriculture, working as a farm equipment mechanic for John Deere and Case International. In addition to being a mechanic he worked for Butcher/Moon Farms for over 30 years. Additionally, Kenny spent countless hours buying, restoring, and selling Ford tractors with his dad and brothers.
Kenny was a man who didn’t know a stranger, making friends wherever he went. The outpouring of love and support during his final months was a testament to the many friendships he forged throughout his life. The family is immensely grateful to the staff at MDH for their exceptional care and to The Lamoine Assisted Living in Macomb, IL, for providing a nurturing environment that made Kenny’s last months beautiful and to Kermit Short for all of his friendship and support with Veteran’s Services.
Kenny will be deeply missed by his family and also by the many friends whose lives he touched. As we remember Kenny, let us celebrate his unwavering spirit, his love for farming, and the kindness he shared with those around him. May he rest in peace, knowing he was loved beyond measure.
A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, May 16, 2025, at the funeral home. A celebration of Kenneth’s life will be held from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 17th, 2025 at Park Place, 127 E. Carroll Street, Macomb, Illinois. A private family interment will take place in the Bushnell Cemetery at a later date. In honoring Kenny’s legacy, the family encourages donations to The Lamoine Assisted Living and Memory Care in Macomb, IL. Moore Memorial Home, Avon, is handling the arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www.moorememorial.com
