Obituary of Richard Alan Neill

Richard "Rick" Neill passed away on October 10, 2024, at the age of 69. Born on October 22, 1954, in Fort Worth, Texas, Rick was the son of the late Billy George Neill and Shirley Ann Boydston Neill and the brother of the late Ken Neill and Randy Neill.  

Rick is survived by his wife of 42 years, Jean Otto, and their daughters: Peggy Cagle and her husband Aaron and their children Lizzie, William, and Molly; Casey Thomas and her husband Joe and their children Troy, Hope, and Booker; and Holly Crawford and her husband Colin and their children Cali, Cameron, and Cooper. He is also survived by his sister Suzanne Elizondo and her husband Isaac, along with his beloved in-laws, nieces and nephews. Additionally, Rick leaves behind many dear friends whom he loved and valued, including lifelong friend Kirk Fuqua, his wife LynnDee Lewis and their family.

Rick and Jean’s relationship began 49 years ago. As a young couple, they loved to dance, and as a family, they loved to travel, especially to the mountains.  One of their favorite activities was taking long walks, and they shared a love of reading. 

Rick adored his daughters and was a proud dad of three girls, always ready to share his love of romantic comedies, geography, and a perfect football spiral. He especially cherished the time spent shopping with his daughters, and he could pick out the perfect outfit for any occasion. His nine grandchildren were the light of his life, and he took great pride in watching them grow.  Throughout his life, Rick’s family was always his top priority. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

As a child, Rick lived in New Orleans, Dallas, and Fort Worth.  He grew up with a large, loving extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins, maintaining close relationships with them throughout his life. Rick had fond memories of his cousins and would often share stories of their childhood shenanigans. 

Rick graduated from Everman High School in 1973. He went on to earn a BA in History with a minor in Political Science from UT Arlington and a teaching certificate from UT Austin. He later received a master’s in education from Southwest Texas (now known as Texas State).

Rick began his teaching and coaching career in 1982 at Elgin High School. Over his 31-year career, he also taught and coached at Terrell High School, Joshua High School, and Glen Rose High School, where he retired in 2013. Known to students as Coach Neill, he taught Government, Economics, and American History.  He is remembered for his enthusiastic teaching style, beginning class with a thunderous “It’s a great day for American History.” Rick was a dedicated mentor, leaving a lasting impact on many young lives, guiding countless students through their academic, athletic, and personal challenges, and encouraging them to strive for their goals. 

A lifelong fan of the Texas Rangers, he proudly followed his team through the ups and downs of many seasons. It was a great joy in his life that he lived to see the Rangers win the World Series.

Rick was known for his Southern charm and gregarious personality.  Wherever he traveled, Rick always found someone with whom he shared a connection. With a dry sense of humor and a knack for not-so-subtle innuendos, he left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him. 

Rick also had a lifelong passion for politics and government, which he shared with anyone who dared to discuss politics. He enjoyed fishing and golfing; although he might not have been the most skilled in either, he enjoyed these hobbies with his signature enthusiasm.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Cityview Nursing and Rehabilitation for the compassionate care they provided to Rick in his final years.

A Rosary service will be held at 10:00 AM on October 21, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11 AM, at Thompson's Harveson & Cole Funeral Home, 4350 River Oaks Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas. Rick will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.