James I. "Jim" McNeilly, age 87 of Barryton, passed away Monday, July 20, 2020 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born October 22, 1932, in Orient Township, Osceola County, the son of Edwin Excell McNeilly and Dorothy (Gibbs, McNeilly) Lewis. Jim graduated from Barryton Agricultural High School in 1951 and then attended Ferris State College. He married Betty Gardner on May 23, 1952, in Barryton. Together Jim and Betty raised their family throughout the Midwest as Jim worked road construction for 18 years. He was a man of many talents owning and operating various businesses in Barryton. Jim was also the sexton at Brown, East Fork, and Flake Cemeteries in Fork Township for many years. He was an active member of the Barryton Community. Jim held various positions in numerous organizations, including: Barryton Area Development Association, Barryton Lions Club, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Masons, Barryton Area Fair Board, Boy Scout Troup 124, Barryton Area Museum, Barryton Chamber of Commerce, and Chippewa Hills School Board. He was also on the board of the Home Owners Association in Florida. Jim enjoyed hunting and fishing but he loved the most, spending time with his family. He is going to be missed by all who knew him. Jim is survived by his four children, Mark (Mary) McNeilly of Barryton, Peggy McNeilly of Big Rapids, Pam (Mike) Maguire of Reed City, and Timothy (Joanne) McNeilly of Kentucky; two daughters-in-law, Deborah McNeilly and Kim Smith; 16 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; sister, Eloise McNeilly of Pretty Lake; two stepbrothers, Ty (Paulette) Strong of Diamond Lake and Bud (Jeri) Strong of Barryton; stepsister, Sandra Stevens of Remus; two sisters-in-law, Faith McNeilly of Lake and Pam Gardner of Lansing; two brothers-in-law, Kenneth Gardner of Charlotte and Jerry (Dolores) Gardner of DeWitt; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 66 years Betty McNeilly, two sons James A. and Michael L. McNeilly, brother Edwin McNeilly, infant sister Elizabeth McNeilly, stepfather Elery Lewis, and stepmother Margaret McNeilly. A graveside service will take place 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 1, 2020 at East Fork Township Cemetery in Barryton. Please sign the registry book, offer a condolence, or share a memory by clicking the guestbook tab at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Graveside Service Saturday, August 1, 2020 11:00 AM East Fork Cemetery Barryton,Michigan 49305