Neill Aycock Kimrey

            NORWOOD – On Saturday, December 2, 2023, Mr. Neill Aycock Kimrey, 55, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home.

            Neill was born October 3, 1968, in Stanly County, NC, and was a son of Judi Black Kimrey and the late Mabon McNeill Kimrey. He was a 1986 graduate of South Stanly High School. He received a bachelor's degree in English and a master’s degree in Instructional Technology, both from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

            He worked for several years with Stanly County Schools and later with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as Director of Student Initiatives.

            Neill dearly loved spending time with his family. His niece and nephew were just like his very own children. He loved music. He enjoyed watching the science channel on television as he was a life-long learner. He also loved ice cream and chocolate cake.

            He and his mother shared a love for gardening and animals; however, one of his constant challenges with gardening was the rabbits that enjoyed eating all the bounty. He took great measures to keep the rabbits away from the garden, all the while never harming one.

            Neill’s love of and caring for family was a generational gift. He saw how his family had cared for one another throughout the years, and this was a part of the man he was. He was a constant among his family, and he shared a close bond with his aunts, uncles, and cousins. They were not just family to him; they were his friends, too. Being the oldest of the grandchildren on his mother’s side, he was doted on by his aunts and uncles until they were blessed with children of their own.

            He not only had a love for gardening, but he also followed his mother’s footsteps in loving to cook and bake. Many family memories involve sharing meals and garden bounty with one another.

            Those left to cherish fond memories of Neill are his mother, Judi; his sister, Beth Kimrey, and wife, Heidi Morton ,of Albemarle; his niece, Alex Elder Saesee and husband, Brian Saesee; and nephew,  Harris Elder and companion, Kelsey all of Albemarle; his aunts, uncles, and cousins from both the Black and Kimrey families; and his beloved and precious dog, Ginger.

            In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the John P. Murray Community Care Clinic, 303 Yadkin St., Suite C, Albemarle, NC 28001, or to the animal rescue organization of the donor’s choice.

            Neill’s request was to be cremated and have no formal service. Friends may call on the family at the home of his sister in Albemarle.

            The arrangements are in care of Leavitt Funeral Home and online condolences may be made at www.leavittfh.com