Bennie McNeely

Bennie McNeely, Jr., who was fondly called “Bennie Boy” by family members and close friends, died on December 28, 2017 with his half-sister Bonnie Hamilton by his side. Born on October 30, 1936, he was 81 years old and had lived in Many most of those years. Along with Bonnie and his niece Casey Crawford, he had two cousins Vicki Simpson and Olivia Pass. His cousin Jo Ellen Cotton predeceased him. He was the son of Bennie McNeely, Sr. and Doris Logan McNeely, who had both predeceased him. The funeral was held at Warren Meadows Funeral Home in Many on December 30. Interment followed the funeral at the Many Cemetery. After graduating from Many High School, Bennie went to Northwestern State University and received a bachelor’s degree in business. Following graduation from Northwestern, he proudly served his country as Private First Class in the U.S. Army. He spent much of his Army stint in Vietnam. Returning to Many, he was employed as a bookkeeper by Vancouver, later changed to Boise Cascade. Bennie had many close friends and relatives. Most people hope to leave this planet a better place; Bennie achieved just that. He brought much love and cheer into the lives of many generations. An avid film buff from childhood and a lively raconteur, Bennie especially enjoyed discussing films and actors with friends and family. He always had a warm smile and a funny story, told with a quick wit and an infectious laugh. None of his family members can recall seeing Bennie in a bad mood. His zest for life and enjoyment of his friends and family truly influenced others, allowing those whom he met to remember him with positivity and love. Pallbearers were Wes Veuleman, Matt Veuleman, Mike Veuleman, Tyler Cotton, Jason Fluitt, Judge Boudreaux