Marvin Neely

In Loving Memory of Marvin Neely

May 21, 1944 – May 13, 2025
Born in Robbins, Illinois –  Passed in Oswego, Illinois

“I’m Free”

by Shannon Lee Moseley

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free.
I’m following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call.
I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way.
I found that peace at the close of day.

If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss—
Ah yes, these things, I too will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow.
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I savored much:
Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief—
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me.
God wanted me now, He set me free.

Marvin Neely (aka “Big M”) was a man whose quiet strength and deep heart left an imprint on every soul he encountered. A devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he lived a life anchored in love, laughter, and unshakeable responsibility. Whether standing over a stovetop as a chef, solving a puzzle, or making a grandchild giggle, Marvin gave fully to the moment in front of him.

He took immense pride in marrying his beloved wife, Samella, and becoming a father not only biologically but by choice. He accepted responsibility with grace and intention, building a blended family rooted in trust and love. His children carry the lessons he lived – patience, honesty, and the courage to lead without noise.

He was sarcastic, honest, and never missed a chance to offer a bit of wisdom—usually wrapped in humor. His love for Smokey Robinson’s music was a soundtrack for many moments, and he loved cigars (though, as he would tell you, he never inhaled). Marvin’s presence was felt in the small things, the shared laughter, the gentle nods, and the spaces where people felt seen. Everyone who encountered him walked away feeling like family. His circle was limitless, his heart expansive, and his influence lasting.

In accordance with his wishes, Marvin’s body has been donated to medical research so that even in death, he can continue to give to others.

A Celebration of Life

We invite all who loved Marvin to join us on May 31, 2025, at 2PM for a celebration in his honor with music, food, laughter, and memories – just the way he would have wanted.

3370 White Oak Drive

Diamond Building II

Oswego, IL 60543

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests monetary donations be directed to Juanita Tyler (granddaughter) via Zelle using the following email address: tylerjuanita@yahoo.com or by scanning the QR code:

Family Tree

Parents:

*Fletcher Neely Sr. (Father) and *Mable Marie (Mother)

Wife

Samella Neely

Siblings:

Marie (sister), *Fletcher Jr (brother), *Mitchell (brother), *Estelle (sister), *Wesley (brother), Lydia (sister), *Herman (brother), Veronica (sister), Mitchell (brother), Estelle (sister), and *Kevin (brother)

Children:

Edwin (son), *Phillip (son), Calvester Jr. (son), Sherry (daughter), and Marvin Neely Jr. (son)

Marvin also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

*Deceased

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