The Neeley Family

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class John Neeley

Retired U.S. Army SFC John A. Neeley enlisted September 19,1984, in Memphis, TN. Following Basic Training in Ft. Benning, Georgia and various assignments within two years, he was promoted to Squad leader as a Sergeant. He led his soldiers to JOTC Panama, Honduras Joint Operations where he was decorated by four-star general John Goodall, the REDCOM Commander.

Upon completion of his 3 year enlistment, he enlisted in the US Army Reserves as a Training NCO where he was quickly promoted to Staff Sergeant. He was awarded Non-Commissioned Officer of the year for his Army Reserve Battalion.

He then relocated to Memphis, TN and married his wife, Rusty, in 1994. Together, they have 3 grown children and 2 grandchildren.

Upon his return to TN as a Recruiter in 2010, his Sergeant Major and Commander noticed that his skills and physical abilities were deteriorating following his deployment to Iraq. It was determined the stresses of deployment and exposure to a combat environment had given him a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, PTSD, hearing loss and burn pit exposure. John medically retired in April of 2013. During his time in service, John received multiple awards and medals.

Following retirement, John and his family moved to a small farm in Shelbyville, Tennessee. John's condition continuesto decline, and simple tasks are more difficult. In 2017, he was diagnosed with Esophageal cancer and underwent Chemo and radiation. He beat it but is now undergoing treatment for Prostate cancer. He is confined to an electric wheelchair assigned to him for mobility and basic life functions. However, his home had deteriorated as well and was not functional or safe for him or his wheelchair.

Operation Finally Home learned of disrepair of the Neeley home and reached out to Gail Builders and Lowe’s to help. The home now has completely repaired ductwork along with new subfloor and flooring. The wider doorways accommodate John’s wheelchair. Finishing touches include plumbing fixes, patching holes and fresh paint. Thanks to Operation Finally Home, Lowe’s and Gail Builders, the Neeley family has a safe place to call home.