James Oduis Neeley, age 89, passed away on March 19, 2026.
James Oduis Neeley, age 89, of Taneyville, Missouri, passed away on March 19, 2026. He was born on December 27, 1936, in Festus, Missouri, to Ollie and Lora Neeley.
James was a man whose life was rooted in love for family, hard work, and the outdoors. In his early career, he served as a line supervisor for American Consolidated Freighters, taking pride in building box cars that helped move America forward. Later, he turned his lifelong passion for the outdoors into a calling as a professional fishing guide on Table Rock Lake, where his skill and knowledge earned him wide respect and lasting friendships.
He married Della Mae Gunter on July 30, 1955, and together they built a loving home filled with laughter, strength, and faith.
He is survived by his son Mike Neeley and daughter-in-law Donna Neeley of Taneyville, MO; son-in-law Paul Christomos of Branson, MO; daughter Jeanie Duncan and son-in-law Matt Duncan of Harrison, AR; and daughter Dottie Parton and son-in-law Jeff Parton of Blue Eye, MO. James is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, and 2 more on the way—each part of the legacy of love and strength he built with his beloved wife.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Della Mae Neeley; daughters Terrie Christomos and Shiela Neeley; great-grandson Jake Jacobs; sisters Lula Williams and Dorothy Harrison; brothers J.L. Parks and Curtis Parks; and his parents, Lora and Sanford Parks.
James will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose quiet strength, warm humor, and deep love for the outdoors touched everyone who knew him. He found his greatest joy in his beloved wife Della and the family they shared, time on the water, and the simple peace of a well lived life.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 29, at Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel, 16560 Highway 160, Forsyth, Missouri. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 p.m.
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