Howard McNelley

Howard "Mac" Dee McNelley, 74, was born on October 8, 1943 in Ames, Iowa. He lived in McAllen, TX until he was 9 before moving to Santa Ana, CA. Howard joined the Air Force out of high school in 1961. He spent 28 years proudly serving his country. He often spoke about his experiences, especially in Germany, Australia, England and Korea. He has always said that he would have stayed in the Air Force for life if it had been possible. He was stationed in Biloxi, MS in 1980 where he remained after retirement.
After retiring in 1989, he spent 25 years making lifetime memories and friendships at Wal-Mart in Ocean Springs. Howard's heart was full the last few weeks learning about all the lives he impacted and the amount of people that truly looked up to him.
Howard was preceded in death by his mother, Ramona Ball, father, Les McNelley, Mother-in-law, Theresa Clark-Holland and Father-in-law, Hydee Holland.
He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Cindy McNelley; sister, Karen Newcomb, CA;  Sons: Howard Jr. (Lisa), Alexandria, Ohio; Shannon (Mary), Claremore, OK; Donn, FL; Jon (Tametha) New Underwood, SD; Patrick (Misty), Tulsa, OK; Christopher, Friday Harbor, WA; Daughters: Monica (Mike) Polak, CA; Ramona (Elton) Coleman, Vernal, UT; Elizabeth Hebert, OK; Chelsea (Brian) Miller, Tulsa, OK; Robin Moran, Ocean Springs, MS, his best friend of 37 years, Larry Burdeshaw, "adopted daughters" Andraya Catchot, Kisha Smith and Angela Wescovich, 19 amazing grandchildren and his sidekick and partner in crime, Ellie McNelley.
Howard retired from the Air Force as SMSGT. He received a meritorious service medal, AF commendation medal, AF outstanding unit award, AF good conduct medal, national defense service medal, humanitarian service medal, AF overseas short tour ribbon. He also received AF overseas long tour ribbon, AF longevity service award, NCO professional military education graduate ribbon, and AF basic training ribbon.
We want to extend our warmest Thank you to Dr. Brian Persing, Brynna Burnsed, Mindy Bustamante, and the entire staff at Regional Cancer Center for all your dedication. Also, Donna and Aaron and the staff from Hospice of Light. He loved you all deeply.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd at Washington Ave, West Jackson County.
The funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home chapel with a visitation from 10:00 AM until the service.
Burial with full military honors will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery.
A luncheon will follow the graveside service at the funeral home's Reception Center
An online obituary may be viewed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com.