Phyllis Dean Neeley

In Loving Memory of Phyllis “Deaner” Neeley

August 1st, 1961 – June 1st, 2025

Phyllis Dean Neeley, affectionately known by many as “Deaner,” was called home on June 1st, 2025. She was born on August 1st, 1961, in Ohio,  but was raised in Orlo Vista, Florida, a place she carried proudly in her heart and always called home.

Deaner was a woman of strength, spirit, and extraordinary love. Known for her fierce loyalty, quick wit, and radiant personality, she had a remarkable ability to make everyone around her feel seen, valued, and cared for. She lived unapologetically bold, compassionate, and full of life. Her heart was as vast as her humor was sharp, and her words, whether comforting or candid, were always genuine.

She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose presence left a lasting impression on countless lives. 

She is survived by her siblings:

• Brother, Robert

• Sisters, Roberta, Belinda, and Bessie

her loving children:

• Sons, Joshua (fiancée Makayla) and Cody (fiancée Brittany)

• Daughter, Patricia

• Daughter-in-law, Christina

• Bonus children: Brandy, Jeremy, and Jay Jr.

Her Grandchildren 

• Autumn, Trent, Michael, Shelby, Matthew, Mikayla, Levi, Rhyder, Bridgett, Anna-Nicole, Wesley, Jocelyn, Waylon, Wyatt, and Layla. Bonus Grandchildren Shyann, Tayla, Danny III And her great-grandson Ethan.…and a very large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends, many of whom she embraced as her own.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son Kenneth, her parents Lois and Coy Sr., her sisters Alice, Catherine, and Bridgett, her brothers Coy Jr., Kenny, and Lester, her nephews James and John John, along with many other dear family members and friends who welcomed her into eternal rest.

Deaner was a woman of many roles—sister, aunt, friend, matriarch but her most treasured title was “Maw Maw.” Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she poured her love into each of them.

She had a gift for storytelling and a kitchen that was always full of food, laughter, and warmth. Her hugs were unforgettable, her advice was honest (whether you were ready for it or not), and her blue eyes held a depth of love and wisdom that made everyone feel safe. She worked hard throughout her life, held firmly to her values, and never wavered in her authenticity. 

Deaner was vibrant and colorful, she found beauty in all things. She brought light, love, and a little fire wherever she went. Her absence leaves a profound void, but her spirit, her stories, and her legacy of love will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

May we honor her memory by carrying her strength in our hearts and continuing to love each other fiercely, just as she always did.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Phyllis Dean Neeley, please visit our floral store.