Daniel Gordon McNeil

Dan Gordon McNeil, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 72. Known for his warm spirit and immense love for family, Dan touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity, and devotion.

Dan had a special connection with children and dogs, who were instinctively drawn to him wherever he went. His heart was full of love for those around him, and he always made an effort to welcome others, particularly those who cherished his family. Neighbors knew him for his kindness, often seeing him take an interest in the well-being of their pets and children before anything else. Dan’s adventures took him across the globe, where he captured moments in time through his lens, sharing both the beauty of the places he visited and the faces of those he loved.

He is survived by his devoted wife of many years, Dee McNeil, and their children: Jennifer (Buddy), Carly (Jeff), Dustin (Renee), CarolAnn (Jess), Jacob, and Shawn. He was a proud grandfather to Beau (Alicia), Angel, Tyler (Lizz), Baylee (Spencer), Bryston/Ocho, Arayeh, Junior, Maycee, and Bryson, and cherished his great-grandchildren: Evie, Harper, Willow, Savanna, Elias, Addison, Kasey, and Cheyenne.

Dan’s professional journey was marked by dedication and excellence. A Vietnam War veteran, he proudly served in the United States Air Force. He went on to have a distinguished career as a pilot, starting as a First Officer at Prinair, eventually becoming a Captain at Mississippi Valley Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, USAirways, and finally, American Airlines, from which he retired. Dan remained passionate about aviation and continued to volunteer at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum.

While his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit will live on through the memories of his love for family, friends, and life. He was a man of integrity and warmth, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organizations in Dan's memory:

• The Children’s Heart Foundation – Funding CHD research childrensheartfoundation.org

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• Tunnel to Towers Foundation – Helping America’s Heroes T2T.org

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• Sullenberger Aviation Museum – Inspire. Educate. Elevate Sullenbergeraviation.org

May Dan’s memory be a blessing, and may his love continue to guide us through our lives.