Garry “Paw Paw” Ambrose McNeely, Sr., 82, of Morganton, NC went to his Heavenly Home on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. He was born on March 19, 1944 in Cleveland County to the late William Thor McNeely and Lonnie Lane McNeely. He was a faithful member of Mount Home Baptist Church. Garry retired from Drexel Heritage and still worked in upholstery at his home. He volunteered at Burke United Christian Ministries. Garry loved street rods, NASCAR and Tarheel basketball. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Doyle, Gilbert, and Hal McNeely; sisters, Dorothy Ford and Pat Brittain; great-grandchild, Milani Coffey.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Delores Gatlin McNeely; son, Garry Ambrose McNeely, Jr. (Joy); grandchildren, Brigham McNeely (Lindsi) and Blythe Walker (Chase), Jacob Coffey (Maze) and Jocelyn Benton; great-grandchildren, Marley Johnson, Dominic McNeely, Jovie McNeely and Indy Walker; sisters, Annie R. Towery, Norma J. Fuller (Walter); and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family will receive friends from 1:30-3pm Sunday, April 19, 2026 at Mount Home Baptist Church. The funeral will begin at 3pm in the church with Rev. Ethan Cromer and Rev. Brigham McNeely officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff and doctors at Amorem Hospice, especially Heaven, Chelsea, and Josh.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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So sorry to hear bout Garry's passing. Jack and I came to know all the family during our time at Time Saver Market. Delores and all the family will be in my prayers during the difficult days ahead. With love and sympathy, Guinn Huffman
I got to meet Garry for the first-time at Drexel either when I was 16-17 years of age, was working summer jobs between high school years, met Ambrose during high school years, condolences to the family.
Condolences to Garry's family and friends. He was a good man and always had a kind word for everyone. My father thought highly of Garry.
So saddened to hear this. I knew Gary and his family most of my life having growing up in “Petersburg”. Gary was a good person and particular with his cars he always had an old classic. Condolences to the family and his church family and the community.
Gary you will be missed but I know beyond a shadow of a doubt God has got one awesome angels love ya !
So sorry Delores, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Garry was a good man.
Our prayers are with you in this sad time and for the days ahead. We love you all and may G0ds Mercy and Love give you peace.
Delores I am so sorry you are going through this. Praying for you and your family.