Louis Frank Neely
Louis Frank Neely, 79, passed away peacefully on Jan. 9, 2025, in his home in Hazlehurst. Frank was a beloved husband, father, friend, and servant of God, known for his dry wit and generous heart. His life was dedicated to his family and his faith, and he loved his wife Charlotte with fierce devotion.
Born on April 30, 1945, in Harrisville, Frank was the youngest of six siblings. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter. He enjoyed reading about the Civil War and nothing pleased him like a good knife. He was a quiet man, not one to boast or spin tall tales. When he did speak, you could be sure it came from a place of thoughtful consideration and deep moral character. Yet he was quick to make you laugh with his deadpan humor and was always willing to be silly for his children, grandchildren, and the church youth he pastored so well.
Frank met the love of his life at Copiah-Lincoln Junior College. He married Charlotte Beasley as quickly as he could, and this year was to be their 60th together. They raised two children, Tanya and Jeff, in a home filled with love and laughter. From Jackson to New Roads, La., to Columbus, he built a long career in the power industry. He treated the men he led like family and made a difference in many lives along the way.
Frank was ordained as a deacon at Faith Baptist Church in Livonia, La., where he served as the youth director for a group of teens who loved both him and Charlotte dearly, spending numerous nights in their home. He also served as a deacon at East End Baptist Church in Columbus and most recently at Shady Grove Baptist Church in Hazlehurst.
He served his country in the National Guard. He saved the life of a young man who was drowning. He’d cancel an evening’s plans after passing a broken-down car on the side of the road, just to make sure the woman driving got home safely. As his parents aged, he drove three hours each way almost every weekend to help them around the house and make sure they were taken care of. The example he set for his children was one of humble service.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Charlotte Diane Neely; his son, Jeff Neely (Janelle); grandchildren, Neely Bass (John Allen), Madison Neely, and Benjamin Neely; and his sister, Joanne Neely.
He was preceded by his beloved daughter, Tanya Neely Griggs; parents, Arris Sylvester Neely and Flora Berry Neely; and siblings, Katherine Lofton, James W. Neely (Inez), Donald Neely (Sharon), and Hayward Neely.
A small graveside service to celebrate Frank’s life will be held at 2 p.m., Jan. 12, at the Harrisville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital or Shady Grove Baptist Church in Hazlehurst are suggested.
