Neil Denley of Dayton, Texas, passed away on April 18 after a sudden illness. He was 78.

Neil was born to Ernest and Mozelle Denley on October 24, 1937, in Kilmichael, Mississippi as the youngest of eight children.  He loved sports and attended Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, on a baseball scholarship, later also playing basketball for Southwest Memphis State College. Golf became a passion during his time in the Air Force in Greenwood, Mississippi, and he briefly became a semi-professional bowler after moving to Houston in 1961. Watching and playing sports remained a lifelong passion, and one that he passed on to his two daughters, Gaye and Lee Ann.

Neil married the love of his life, the former June Sells, in 1973, in Houston. Neil and June settled in Dayton following his retirement from Lyondell Petroleum, where he was a water treatment specialist. Neil was devoted to his life with June, and to their church community at Crosby Church of Christ. He loved to cook, and many a potluck was graced with a delicious stew or cobbler from Neil’s kitchen.

Neil’s keen sense of humor and quick wit were legendary, and matched only by his big heart. His presence filled the room and most often resulted in a witticism that would be re-told later, to laughter. He will be deeply missed.

Neil is preceded in death by both parents, one brother and five sisters. He is survived by his wife June, daughters Gaye Denley of Elizabeth, Colorado and Lee Ann Denley of Austin, Texas, and brother Frank Denley of Sugarland.

Neil’s family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the Intensive Care staff of Memorial Hermann Northeast, where he received outstanding care in his final days.