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profound love for boating. Over the years, he built and owned several boats, including memorable ones such as The Combina, The Grouper Jaw, The Sitation, and his final boat, named in honor of his beloved wife, “Fair Child.”
Family meant everything to Neil, and he ensured his wife and children lacked nothing. He was a pillar of strength, actively supporting and encouraging his children, and being present for every milestone in their lives. Embodying a quiet strength, he provided guidance and instilled in them a love for God, family, and country.
Neil maintained an active lifestyle, often taking 4am walks with his wife, never one to be idle he was always engaged in projects. However, in late 2023, his family noticed changes in his health. Despite his stoic demeanor, Neil eventually sought medical attention at the urging of his wife in January 2024. He was initially admitted to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and later airlifted to Health City in the Cayman Islands, where he underwent treatment over four months. Throughout this ordeal, his family stood steadfast by his side, with his wife and children remaining a constant presence. Neil showed promising progress and remained determined to overcome his illness. During this time, he found solace in his faith, keeping his Bible close and listening repeatedly to CeCe Winans’ “Goodness of God,” a source of great comfort.
On May 19th, Neil and his family returned home with renewed hope. Neil spent the week reconnecting with family and friends. However, his wife and children noticed a change in his condition, which led him to spend the evening at the hospital on Friday, May 24th. Subsequently, the following day, he was readmitted and airlifted once more to Health City in the Cayman Islands accompanied by his son, Kelorian.
Throughout this time, Neil remained in communication with his wife and family members, meeting with doctors who planned a procedure for Wednesday, May 29th. On the morning of Tuesday, May 28th, he reassured several family members, including his wife, that he was okay and that everything would be fine. Around 10:15am, as Kelorian was enroute to his hospital room, he received the devastating news that Neil had become unresponsive despite the doctors’ efforts. To everyone’s shock, Neil had peacefully departed this world, resting now with his Lord and Savior.
“Why? Why?” is the question we all ask. A good, strong husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend is no longer with us. To know Neil was to know a man of strength, courage, and independence, qualities he undoubtedly carried with him on his final voyage, sailing not frail and weak but strong, courageous, and independent as he was in life.
Sail on, Captain Neil. Your ship is anchored safe and sound, your earthly voyage is complete.
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