Randal E. Neely

Randal E. Neely, known as Randy, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024, in Wichita, Kansas. Born on September 21, 1951, in Chanute, Kansas, to George and Mary (Castle) Neely. Randy was a true servant of Neosho County who will be deeply missed. 

 Randy's early years were spent on a farm south of Chanute, where he absorbed the values of hard work and community service from his father, George Neely. His formative years included active participation in 4-H and enjoying outdoor activities like fishing and hunting with his father. Randy attended Thayer Elementary School for a short time before moving with his family to Erie, Kansas where he graduated from Erie High School in 1969. His academic journey continued at Neosho County Community College and later at Pittsburg State University.

 Professionally, Randy dedicated his life to serving the citizens of Neosho County, a commitment he embraced from his early days assisting his father, who was then the Neosho County Sheriff. Randy's career spanned several vital roles, including positions at the Chanute Fire Department, the Chanute Police Department, as well as the State Job Service Agency. He concluded his service to the community as the Neosho County Clerk, retiring in 2019 after a distinguished career.

 Beyond his professional life, Randy was a man of many interests. He cherished traveling with his wife, Loretta and indulged in woodworking, target practice, and shooting competitions. A motorcycle enthusiast, he relished cross-country rides, motocross, tooling leather, and making stained glass. He valued the time spent with his girls, his daughter; Kaycia, and granddaughters; Kaydn, and Harper Joan. He loved to sing and taught Kaycia how to sing. He was very involved in helping Kaycia in all her high school singing competitions and Chanute Community Theatre. Randy's approachable and outgoing nature meant he never met a stranger, a trait that endeared him to many.

 Randy is survived by his loving wife, Loretta Neely; his daughter, Kaycia A. Neely of Edmond, Oklahoma; and his granddaughters, Kaydn A. Estes and Harper Joan Justice, also of Edmond, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary (Castle) Neely; his brother, Jerry Neely; and numerous cousins and extended family members.

 Randy's legacy is marked not only by his commitment to public service but also by the warm, genuine connections he fostered with everyone he met. His life is a testament to the impact one individual can have on their community and the lives of others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

 A Celebration of Life visitation will be held on Friday, September 20, 2024, at Wickham Family Funeral Home 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, Kansas, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. A private family and close friend burial will take place at Galesburg Cemetery, Galesburg, KS. at a later date. 

 Memorials in Randy’s Honor are suggested to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation or Randal Neely Memorial Fund, in care of grandchildren. Memorials can be left with or mailed to the funeral home. 

 Services are under the guidance of Wickham Family Funeral Home 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, Kansas 66720