James William McNeely

     James “Ham” McNeely, age 80, transitioned from this life into eternity on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. He was born on March 17, 1945 in Mecklenburg County North Carolina, to the late Mattie McNeely Mundy and was raised by his grandfather James “Pank” McNeely whom he affectionately called “Daddy” and his bonus mother Lula Black McNeely.

     He was educated in the Mecklenburg County School System and attended Ada Jenkins School during his primary years as well as some time at Torrence-Lytle High School. During James’ lifetime, he worshipped at Hunter’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Cornelius, NC.

     The majority of his life he worked as a truck driver and in various other industries. After years of working for others, he started his own business along with his two boys (Richard and Jason) clearing land and selling the trees as timber. After moving into the house on Meridian Street, he became an avid gardener, growing all types of vegetables in his backyard. He shared with family, friends and with anyone that dropped by his house to grab some vegetables that he had set on his front porch. After reaching the age of retirement, he refused to sit down, so he began working at Corine’s Café in Mooresville, NC until the time of his departure from this life.

     James is proceeded in death by his mother Mattie McNeely Mundy, and two of his brothers, Joe Mundy and Dale Mundy.

     He leaves to cherish fond memories: his wife of 58 years, Lula Mae Robertson McNeely, two sons, Richard McNeely of Cornelius NC, and Jason McNeely (Bernita) of Huntersville NC. He leaves four sisters, Ruth Davis (Jerry deceased) of Winston-Salem NC, Shirley Copeland (Melvin deceased) of Miami FL, Phyllis McCain (Earl) of Mooresville NC, Roberta Mundy of Davidson NC, one brother, Jerry Mundy (Janice) of Charlotte NC, bonus grand-children (Harmony, Dallasia, Jada and Teagan) and a host of nieces and nephews.

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