Samuel Dunlap Neely, III

Samuel Dunlay Neely, III passed away on January 16, 2024. He was born on November 25, 1942 to the late Mary Preston Beasley Neely and Samuel Dunlap Neely, Jr., and was a faithful lifetime member of the Orrville United Methodist Church, where his mother's family, the Beairds, were founding members.

Sam was deeply rooted in his farming heritage. His father's ancestors came from Chester County, South Carolina to settle land in Dallas County between Cahawba and Five Points, where they established a legacy of farming, which Sam carried on, farming soybeans and raising Black Angus cattle. Sam continued this noble tradition with pride and dedication. From the sprawling fields of his family farm to his home garden, where his tomatoes were legendary, Sam's commitment to agriculture was unwavering.

Although Sam's days were filled with hard work and quiet determination, he always made time for those who held a special place in his heart. As a family man, the joy of Sam's life revolved around spending quality time with his loved ones, especially during the holidays. These cherished moments created bonds that will forever be treasured by all who were fortunate enough to share them with him.

 An alumnus of Orrville High School's class of 1961, Sam believed in the importance of education. He attended East Central Junior College in Decatur, Mississippi. Many believed Samuel to be quiet and reserved upon first meeting him. However, those who knew him closely understood that behind this humble demeanor lay a heart of gold. His quick wit never failed to bring smiles and laughter to those around him. Samuel had an innate ability to connect with both animals and people alike. His family remembers all of his beautiful dogs, which are buried below his beautiful rose garden. He possessed an unmatched generosity that knew no bounds. If someone was in need, he would gladly give them the shirt off his back without a second thought.

Sam had an enduring love for his small hometown of Orrville; a place that held significant meaning to him, and he always carried a deep love for its charm and sense of community. He exemplified independence and demonstrated self-reliance throughout his life.

Sam is survived his sister, Mary Elizabeth "Liz" Neely Jones, whose bond with him ran deep. His beloved niece, Neely Elizabeth Jones Portera; her husband, John Paul Portera, and great-nephews, John Bonner Portera and William Catledge Portera, will forever cherish the memories they made with their uncle.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Orrville United Methodist Church with Dr. George Wood officiating and Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home directing. Interment will follow at Orrville Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be John Paul Portera, John Bonner Portera, William Portera, Bill Jones, Joseph Middleton, Bain McLaughlin and David Love. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Friday, Sam Givhan, Calvin Bowie and Tripp Bowie.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Orrville United Methodist Church in Sam's memory; 126 Mill Street South, Orrville, Alabama 36767.