Committal
Born in Caswell County, NC on November 23, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Frank J. Malone and Hallie C. Malone.
Hilda graduated from Prospect Hill High School as valedictorian and earned her Bachelor of Arts in biology from Elon College. She was a beloved teacher who was a role model for so many students in her 31 years of teaching science. She taught at Durham County High School, Greensboro Womens College, was head of the Duke University Hospitals Hematology Department, and then at Burke County Public Schools from 1949 to 1980. She was known to go the extra mile for her students by meeting them after normal hours to complete assignments.
Along with her husband, Charles, Hilda was an avid Tar Heels fan who enjoyed going to Kenan Stadium to watch football. She enjoyed basketball just as much and felt like Dean Smith was always going to will the team to victory.
Mrs. McNeely was an active lady and loved to be on the go. She enjoyed playing golf, bridge, traveling abroad, volunteering as a Pink Lady, and even cross-country skiing.
Hilda was a woman of faith who lived it in her daily walk with the Lord. She was an active member of Drexel First Baptist Church, and she had served as a Sunday School teacher, GA leader, sang in the Joy Group, and served in many other capacities.
Mrs. McNeely is survived by her children, Malone McNeely (Shirley) and Kaye M. Hicks (Mike); grandchildren, Brandon McNeely, Katie M. Barkley, Michael M. Hicks, and Bradley B. Hicks; great-grandchildren, Luke & Avery Barkley; cousin, Sandra Newton; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Hilda was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Burgin McNeely; and a brother, F. Jabez Malone, Jr.
The family will receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m., Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Drexel First Baptist Church. A celebration of Hildas life will follow at 4 p.m. in the church with Rev. Bruce Piercy officiating. A private graveside service will be held at Drexel Memorial Park.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Visitation
Feb. 16, 2025
3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Drexel First Baptist Church
Service
Feb. 16, 2025
4 p.m.
Drexel First Baptist Church
Committal
N/A
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Hilda Lee Malone McNeely.
Malone, As you know I lost my dear father about a year and a half ago so I can understand your loss. For me I have many great memories and lessons I learned that give me comfort. I know my dad is in a better place and he lived a great life. I hope that you can find similar comfort in the coming years. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Malone, I’m truly sorry of the passing of your mother. Mom‘s can’t ever be replaced thoughts and prayers go to you from all of us at Hurley Castle.
Dear Malone & Kaye, Your mom was such a sweet lady. I remember how she would come visit w Mama and how she would come visit me after mama died. She was truly a blessing to our church and to Drexel.
Hi Kaye, I remember your sweet mother when she came to the beauty salon and Martha did her hair. She always had a smile to share. We laughed many times together. I am sorry for your loss. Hilda was a special lady. Lisa Rector
Kaye your mother was a beautiful woman and a unique individual. I am so glad I got to meet her, what a lovely spirit. My heart goes out to you and your family as you go through this time of life. God's peace be with you.
Hilda was a very special lady and it was an honor to know her and care for her. She impacted my life and I will always hold a special place in my heart for Hilda. Her family is incredible and she loved them very much. I pray for peace and hope for the family. Hilda we love you so much and you will be missed dearly! Thank you for blessing my life.
I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you your family in the days ahead!
Mrs. McNeely was a wonderful woman and a great teacher.
Kaye and Malone, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was a part of my life for so many years. I loved how straightforward and honest your mom was. I always felt she was so authentic. That’s such a rare and wonderful way to be in the world. Praying for you as you remember and celebrate.