James David Neel

James David Neel, age 39, passed away at his home in Greeneville, Tennessee on Friday, April 24, 2020.  David was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and pastor.  He lived life fully and he immensely enjoyed fishing, turkey hunting and NASCAR.   He and his children had an incredible and joyful bond. David was full of energy and made friends wherever he went, never meeting a stranger. His dedication and commitment to God was unfailing to the very end. David had a very successful career as a Methodist Pastor at various churches including those in Marion, Virginia; Kingsport, Parrottsville, Nitoa, and Greeneville, Tennessee; and in Kentucky. He obtained a Master’s degree in Divinity from Asbury Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, and his Bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies and Psychology from Bluefield College in Bluefield, Virginia. David was described by everyone that knew him as generous, loving, compassionate, and kind.  His friends were too many to list, but were far and wide and are certain to miss him in the community, at work, and everyday life. David is survived by his loving wife Ashley; his children, Isaac, Lucas, Maddux and Lilli, all of the home; his father and step-mother, Vernon and Doris Neel of Bland, Virginia; sister and brother-in-law, Lori and Mark Newberry of Pittsboro, NC; a nephew,  Benjamin Nunn of Appomattox, Virginia; an aunt and uncle, Linda and Gary Donaldson of Wytheville, Virginia; and a cousin, Todd Taylor of Bluefield West Virginia. He was preceded in death by his mother, Paulette Pauley Neel; a cousin, Eric Taylor; and his grandfather, Paul L. Pauley. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to Savannah House in Knoxville, The Holston Home for Children, or Isaiah House in Greeneville Tennessee. In keeping with David’s wishes, a celebration of life service will be held at later date due to the current restrictions. The family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from friends and the community and wish to express their thanks and gratitude. 

Arrangements by Westside Chapel Funeral Home in Morristown.

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