Letha McNeill Obituary

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Mother Letha McNeill, a woman of unwavering faith, deep family devotion, and remarkable strength, who was called home to be with the Lord at the blessed age of 101. Born on May 23, 1924, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Letha was the cherished daughter of the late Will Evans and Jenette Avant. She was one of fourteen children-a beautiful legacy of seven sons and seven daughters. Having lost her mother at the tender age of six, young Letha was raised with care and resilience by her father and eldest sister, Lucille. Through hardship and healing, her childhood in the Cedar Creek community, affectionately known as "Boom Bay," was filled with the joys of family, faith, and simple pleasures like baseball and dodgeball. In the early 1940s, Letha met the love of her life, the late Reverend William McNeill. Their union became a living testimony of commitment, faith, and fruitfulness, as they welcomed nine children into their home. She was a devoted and loving mother to Nettie Mae Brown, William McNeill, who is married to Darlene, Richard McNeill who is married to Mary, Wil Atlas McNeill, James McNeill ("Hubcap"), David McNeill who is married to Tonya, Samuel McNeill who is married to Carolyn, Laura Ann McNeill, and Mary McNeill. Though preceded in death by two of her beloved children, Nettie Mae and James, Mother Letha's love has extended across five generations, touching the lives of 27 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, and 28 great-great-grandchildren. Together with her husband, Letha worked diligently in environmental services at several Fayetteville schools, including North Street (now T.C. Berrien), Newbold Elementary, Alexander Graham Junior High, and Hillcrest Middle School. She also worked for Lawyer Diva. Her work ethic and humble service mirrored her values-faith, family, and community. Mother Letha McNeill's life was a living chronicle of American history and faith. She bore witness to some of the most pivotal moments of the 20th and 21st centuries-the Great Depression, multiple global conflicts, the Civil Rights Movement, and the historic election of the nation's first African American President, Barack Obama, and she witnessed the election of the first female Vice President, Kamala Harris. Through it all, she remained rooted in faith and resilience. Her legacy of patriotism and service was mirrored in her children, several of whom proudly served in the United States Armed Forces. Her sons-William, Wil Atlas, David, and Samuel-honored both their family and their country through military service. Notably, William served during the Vietnam War, and Samuel answered the call during both Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield. Their dedication stands as a powerful reflection of the values of courage, duty, and sacrifice that Mother McNeill so faithfully nurtured in her home. A pillar of faith, Letha was rooted in the church from childhood, beginning at Fallen Run Church. She would later become a vibrant and faithful member of Rockfish Baptist Church, Daniel Temple Holiness Church, Holy Temple Church of Fayetteville, and most notably, Liberty Temple Church, which she helped found over 40 years ago with her husband. Her love for God and the church was unwavering, and her prayers have carried generations. Mother Letha McNeill was the matriarch of a vast family tree and a spiritual mother to many. Her wisdom, quiet strength, warm embrace, and fierce love will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her. Her life was a sermon without words-a testimony of perseverance, grace, and unwavering trust in God. As we reflect on her remarkable life, we honor her not just for her longevity but for the depth of her love, the strength of her faith, and the legacy she leaves behind. Heaven has gained a precious soul, but her presence has forever blessed the earth. Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord. – Matthew 25:23