Robert Lee Neeley Sr.

Sergeant Robert Lee Neeley Sr., age 87 years, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away peacefully Thursday, January 1, 2015, at home surrounded by his family. He was born on April 24, 1927, in Jefferson City, Mo., the son of William P. and Clara (Loethen) Neeley. He was married on August 21, 1948, in Jefferson City, Mo. to Dorothy Gerling. Bob served in the United States Navy during World War II. He began his career with the Missouri State Highway Patrol in 1958 and served for 28 years. He worked out of Troop F as a sergeant until his retirement in 1986. He was a member of the Catholic faith and the American Legion, Roscoe Enloe Post 5. In his free time, Bob was a breeder of championship Charolais cattle, racing pigeons and he enjoyed refinishing furniture. He loved spending time with his family and was always looking forward to attending the next antique auction. Survivors include: his wife of 66 years, Dorothy Neeley; three sons, Robert L. Neeley Jr. (wife Teresa) of Eugene, William Neeley (wife Sue) of Jefferson City, and Edward Neeley of Jefferson City; two daughters, Kay Twehous of Jefferson City and Debbie Neeley of Jefferson City; three sisters, Mary Lou Nevins, Sue Throneberry and Virginia Buscher; seven grandchildren, Ryan Neeley, Kara Heafner (husband Tom), Nolan Twehous, Shelly Twehous, Leslie Less, Lindsie Neeley, and Courtney Salmons; seven great-grandchildren, Logan Twehous, Trevor Twehous, Rylea Less, Breydan Less, Lexi Buschjost, Addisyn Neeley, and Gwendolyn Heafner. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, William Neeley and Jimmy Neeley. Visitation will be at Freeman Mortuary from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, Tuesday, January 6, 2015. A memorial service will be conducted at 12:00 noon, Tuesday, January 6, 2015 in the Freeman Chapel with the Reverend Greg Meystrik officiating. Military honors will be held immediately after the memorial service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com