Jerry Rollin Neill
Apr 20, 1960 - Mar 14th, 2024- Birth Date: Apr 20, 1960
- Death Date: Mar 14, 2024
- Funeral Date: Apr 20, 2024, 2:00 pm
- Location: Saint Michael's Episcopal Church
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Biography: Jerry Rollin Neill
Devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend
Jerry Neill, 63, died Thursday, March 14th, 2024, just short of his 64th birthday, after a brief but valiant fight against lung cancer.
Jerry was born April 20, 1960, in Springfield, Missouri to John T. and Mary Neill. Growing up as the youngest of 5 siblings, Jerry quickly learned to hold his own. Helping on the family farm, he also learned the value of hard work and the satisfaction that came from a job well done. As a young child, Jerry loved to learn. He was known to spend his mornings reading the encyclopedia while the rest of the family slept. Jerry’s interest in rocks was inspired by the building of I-44, which bisected his family’s property. Blasting uncovered fossils hidden deep within the limestone—a fascinating mystery for a young boy with an appetite for knowledge.
The opportunity to work as a graduate assistant and explore fossils in the western United States solidified Jerry’s career path. He graduated from Missouri State University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology. He later received a Master of Science degree from the same university in Resource Planning.
In January 1990, Jerry was diagnosed with Stage 4B Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Later that year, on May 19th, he married the love of his life, Ardyth Ann Rector Neill. Jerry finished his treatment for cancer and was declared cancer-free in August 1991. Jerry and Ardyth relocated to Maumelle, Arkansas in 1994. On April 25th, 1994, Jerry accepted a job with the State of Arkansas in the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality, now the Department of Energy and Environment. Jerry’s love for all things science and earth carried him through various departments and thirty years of service to the State of Arkansas.
If there was anything Jerry loved more than fossils, rocks, and shells, it was his beloved wife, Ardyth. Jerry and Ardyth loved to travel. Their most recent trip was to Orange Beach, Alabama, where Jerry spent his days searching for shells and soaking up the environment. Jerry also loved to cook. At the insistence of his wife, he became an avid Traeger user and began a long history of grilling/smoking meals for every family gathering. Jerry and Ardyth lived a quiet, happy life in Maumelle with their Labrador’s, Magic, Luna, and Arwen.
Jerry is a licensed, professional Geologist in the State of Arkansas and the State of Missouri. He has been a member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Little Rock, Arkansas since 2002.
Jerry is survived by his wife Ardyth; mother Mary; sister Karen (Neill) Smith and brother-in-law Tom; brother James Neill and sister-in-law Lynn; sister Barbara (Neill) Hunt and brother-in-law Jim; and his beloved nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father John T. Neill; and brother Joseph “Joe” Neill.
Jerry will be remembered for his love of rocks, his dry wit and sly smile, and his delicious meals. Most of all, Jerry will be remembered for the love he expressed daily to those he cared about.
A celebration of life will be held for Jerry at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Little Rock, Arkansas on April 20th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested any contributions be made to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Little Rock, Arkansas and/or to Heifer Foundation to the Rector & Neill Families Program Endowment.
Thinking about you as Jerry's funeral approaches on his birthday. Bob and I are out of town then but we will have you and yours in our hearts.
Jerry and I navigated part of our college days together in the geosciences department. He was a huge help, influence & cheerleader to me during those days and in the years following graduation. I remember his battle (and yours) through his lymphoma at KU Med Center. I felt his strength & determination when holding his hand through the barrier of his isolation room. I've never forgotten his example from that moment. It set a roadmap for me in helping with and dealing with the cancer that took both my parents and my father-in-law.
Wishing you peace, much love, and condolences. --- Tara Johnson
I am saddened to hear about Jerry’s passing. I didn’t know Jerry well and from all I’ve learned, this is my loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. ❤️
We just found out about Jerry’s passing today. We are so sorry to hear of it! Jerry had overcome so many adversities to have a wonderful life with you. He loved you very much - sent you roses for special occasions! He will be missed! Our prayers go out to you and all of his family!
Kit & Ronnie
I am so saddened by Jerry's passing and my heart hurts for you. While I didn't have the privilege of knowing Jerry personally, I certainly did sense the impact of his spirit and character as reflected in your own expressions whenever you spoke of him. I hope you will be comforted in knowing that so many people care and are praying for you as you celebrate Jerry's life while yet mourning his too-early passing.
We are so sad to hear of Jerry’s passing. Our deepest sympathies go out to you (and your labs!) during this difficult time. With much love, Connie and Alice George
I am so sorry for your loss. I have learnt from you what a wonderful person Jerry was and have been blessed by your story and journey together. I send my sincere condolence at this time and will keep you in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Adesuwa
Our sincerest sympathy for your loss. In addition to knowing Jerry as a coworker, we shared some fun times in Branson and Silver Dollar City. We hope all of your fond memories will be a comfort during this time.
Susan Speake
I am so sorry for your loss. Just just heartbreaking!
Jerry was such a great guy and a wonderful co-worker at the Department. His historical knowledge has been an enormous help to many through the years. We will miss him terribly. Our condolences and prayers for you will continue.
Sincerely,
Kevin White
Arkansas Mining Program Manager