James R. Neef

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 31, 2013 at a 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Lafayette for James R. Neef, Sr. , age 87, who died on Friday, December 27, 2013 at his residence in Lafayette. Interment will be in Lafayette Memorial Park. Reverend Michael Russo, Pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church will be the celebrant of the funeral Mass and will conduct the funeral services. Lectors will be David Neef and Dottie Neef Branch. Gift bearers will be Theresa Neef, Stephanie Neef, and Blake Neef. Keith D’Anna, vocalist, accompanied by Rachel Gaspard, organist, will sing for the services, “Just As I Am,” “Amazing Grace, “How Great Thou Art,” and “I Will Sing of My Redeemer.” Survivors include his beloved wife of 62 years, Heloise A. Thibodeaux Neef of Delcambre; four sons, Jimmie Neef, Jr. and his wife Florinda of Lafayette, Steve Neef and his wife Nita of Lafayette, Robert “Bob” Neef of Houston, and Matt Neef of Houston; seven grandchildren; and one great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, James G. Neef and Dorothy Campbell Neef; his brother, William G. Neef; and his sister, Ann Vick. James R. “Jimmy” Neef, Sr. was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma on November 21, 1926 and moved to Scott, Louisiana when he was a young boy. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy proudly serving his country in World War II and later in the Korean War. He was a long-time resident of Lafayette, Louisiana and a faithful member of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. Jim received a Civil Engineering degree from SLI (now ULL), and retired in 1988 from the Louisiana Department of Transportation after over forty years of employment. He coached Little League baseball for many years, and later directed the American Legion baseball program with his twin brother, Bill. Jim enjoyed being outdoors, sports, and especially playing golf with his brother and friends during his retirement. He will be missed greatly by all who knew and loved him. The family requests that visitation be observed on Monday from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM. A Rosary will be recited by Deacon Tim Maragos on Monday, December 30, 2013 at 7:00 PM in Delhomme Funeral Home in Lafayette. Visitation will continue on Tuesday from 8:00 AM until the time of services. Pallbearers will be Christopher Neef, David Neef, Sean Neef, Nathan Neef, Blake Neef, Billy Neef, Tommy Neef, and Ty Neef. Honorary pallbearers will be Jim’s sons, Jimmie Neef, Jr., Steve Neef, Bob Neef, and Matt Neef. Personal condolences may be sent to the Neef family at www.delhommefuneralhome.com. Delhomme Funeral Home, 1011 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA 70506 is in charge of funeral arrangements.

James R. Neef

November 21, 1926 - December 27, 2013