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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Delores and family so sad to hear about Garry our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Sincerely , James and Darlene Suttle
Sending hugs and prayers to you and your family! Peace to all!
I have know Garry since we were small children. Always loved him. He always had an easy smile and a kind word for everyone. I will not be able to attend his service as I am out of town. But, my thoughts and love will go out to Delores, his children as well as his sisters during this difficult time.
Delores, Ambrose and family, Though Garry may be gone, his presence is felt in every cherished memory. The world has lost a beautiful soul - Rest in peace my friend!