James C. Neill

June 24,1935 – May 20, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James C. Neill on May 20, 2024. Jim was born on June 24, 1935, to James and Josephine (McCabe) in the Bronx, New York. He was the eldest of five brothers whom he deeply loved: John, Joseph, Michael, Bernard, and Francis. Jim’s life was a testament to love and family values.

Raised in Bayside, NY, Jim lived above O’Neill’s Bar on Bell Blvd which his parents owned and operated. Jim learned the importance of hard work and integrity from his parents, and especially from his mother as he helped her raise his brothers and run O’Neills after his father’s passing when he was 9 years old.

Growing up, Jim had a passion for sports, especially baseball, and pursued it along with his studies. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, NY, Jim majored in Accounting at St. John’s University and later earned his MBA from Hofstra University. Jim’s professional journey led him to become a Partner at McGladrey & Pullen LLP in New York City. Jim also served his country in the Army Reserves.

Jim met Gail Leonard at The Ocean Club in Atlantic Beach, New York and in 1961, Jim and Gail married, and together, they raised six children: James Neill, Deborah McCavitt, Christine Fouts, Maureen Karle, John Neill, and Colleen Overlock. Jim was also a devoted Pop Pop to 14 grandchildren.

In 1970, Jim and Gail settled in Kent, CT, where they found happiness as part of the Kent community. Jim loved the changing seasons, particularly the vibrant colors of the fall foliage. He enjoyed hiking and cross-country skiing in Macedonia State Park. He loved to watch his kids play sports and cheer them on. In his retirement, he enjoyed playing golf and tennis and supporting his community as the Treasurer of the Kent Land Trust. Gail and Jim spent their summers enjoying time with friends and family at Sun and Surf Beach Club.

Jim was a devout Catholic who lived a life of faith. Jim’s greatest legacy was his commitment to family. The love he shared with his wife, brothers, children, and grandchildren was unbounded. While he will be deeply missed, his spirit will forever inspire us to cherish and prioritize our loved ones, holding family and friends close.

There will be calling hours on Friday, May 24th, at Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge Street, New Milford, CT, between the hours of 3pm and 7pm. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, May 25th, directly at the Sacred Heart Church in Kent at 11am followed by a burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Kent, CT. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Kent Land Trust (www.kentlandtrust.org/donate) or The Kent Volunteer Fire Department (www.kentfire.org/giving).