LOWELL—John J. ‘Jack’ McNeil, 90 years old, a longtime resident of the Pawtucketville section of Lowell, died Saturday morning at the Blaire House of Tewksbury, after an extended illness. He was the beloved husband for over 50 years of Marguerite H. (Burke) McNeil, who survives him.
He was born in Boston, on November 14, 1914, a son of the late Frank P. and Mary (Coughlin) McNeil, and was a graduate of Keith Academy.
Mr. McNeil served in the United States Army during World War II in the 100th Infantry Division, Company E in Europe, recognized by the French Government for the liberation of France and awarded the Purple Heart and 2 Bronze Stars.
Following his military service, he was employed as the Deputy Director of the Veteran’s Services for the City of Lowell. He was a free lance advertising professional and became the Supervisor of Attendance for the Lowell School Department from which he retired. He was a communicant of the Shrine of St. Rita, life member of the American Legion, Knights of Columbus and Disabled American Veterans. He was an avid fisherman, golfer and card player and enjoyed his time at ‘Papa’s Camp’ in Pelham.
Surviving him besides his wife are six sons and their wives: John J. and Diane McNeil, Jr., Michael A. and Mary Jo McNeil, of Lowell; Frank J. McNeil, Richard P. and Carol A. McNeil, of Westford; Lt. Col. Timothy M. and Kathleen McNeil, of Windham NH; and Paul W. and Kristine McNeil, of Lowell; a brother and sister-in-law: Francis C. ‘Cliff’ and Lucy McNeil, of Westford; 12 grandchildren: Shaun, Cheri, Michael, Ryan, Brian, Devin, Amy, Bethany, Katelyn, and Brianna McNeil and Robert and Brittany White; a niece and her husband: Frances and Richard Flynn; also many nieces and nephews.
He was the brother of the late Helen Flynn, Annie and Frances McNeil.
Friends may call at the MAHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 187 Nesmith Street, (Rte. 38) from 4 until 8 PM on Tuesday, June 28th. His Funeral Mass to be offered Wednesday June 29th, at 9 AM at the SHRINE OF ST. RITA, Mammoth Road, Lowell. Burial in St. Patrick Cemetery, Lowell.