AMERICUS — John Ansley McNeill Sr., 88, of Americus, died Monday, March 13, 2017, at his home. He was born July 25, 1928, in Sumter County to the late Robert Duncan McNeill Jr. and Orlean Ansley McNeill. He was born and raised and spent his life on a farm in the New Era community. He graduated from Americus High School and then earned a degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton. At one time or another he grew cotton, peanuts, wheat, corn, soybeans, green beans, cows, hogs, horses, and children. He and his wife Ellen dedicated their 67 years together to their faith, family, and the land they loved and farmed.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, March 15, 2017, at Salem United Methodist Church. The Rev. Kevin Kilgore will officiate the service. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m., one hour prior to the service at Salem United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Ellen McNeill of Americus; a daughter and son-in-law, Martha and Shelton Souther of Douglas; and a son, John McNeill Jr. of Americus. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Casey and Kevin Kilgore, Megan and Chuck Carson, Jess and MeriBeth McNeill, Ansley and Myles Alexander, Anna Rose Souther, and Will Souther; and eight great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to Phoebe-Sumter Hospice, P.O. Box 1434, Americus GA 31709 or to Salem United Methodist Church, 942 Upper River Road, Americus GA 31709.

You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts and memories by visiting www.greghancockfuneralchapel.com.

Greg Hancock Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.