A family man who enjoyed spending time in Scituate with his family
MELROSE — Dr. James T. McNeil, of Melrose passed away on November 2, 2021. Dr. McNeil was raised in Everett. He attended Boston College High School and then entered the United States Navy V-12 program during World War II matriculating at Boston College and Brown University before entering dental school at New York University. After graduating from dental school, Dr. McNeil opened a practice in Medford which he closed due to being called back into service with the Navy during the Korean War. After fulfilling his commitment to the Navy, Dr. McNeil returned to private practice but this time in Everett where he continued to practice until retirement. Dr. McNeil was also a trustee of Bridgeton Academy.
Dr. McNeil was an avid sports fan particularly the Boston sports teams. He enjoyed spending his summers with his family in Scituate. He also enjoyed playing tennis and golf at Hatherly Country Club where he was a member for many years. His fond memories of his childhood and friends in Everett were always part of his discussions with anyone.
Nothing, however, was more important to Dr. McNeil than his family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Helen E. (Burke) McNeil, brothers John J. McNeil, M.D. and Francis (Bud) McNeil. He was the loving father of Dr. Kevin McNeil and his wife, Jennifer, of Amesbury; David McNeil and his wife, Debbie, of Westwood; Susan Correia and her husband, Joseph, of Melrose; Paula Gallagher and her husband, Mark, of Winchester; Maryann Sullivan and her husband, Robert; Kathleen McNeil and Christine Blanchard and her husband, Raymond, all of Melrose. Proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
Visiting hours were held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose, on Friday, November 5 from 4 – 7 p.m. A funeral Mass was held at Incarnation Church,425 Upham St., Melrose, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 6. Interment to follow Mass at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Merrimack Valley Hospice at https://www.homehealthfoundation.org/donate/. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit gatelyfh.com.
