James Leonard Neff

James Leonard “Jim” Neff October 31, 1962 – October 22, 2025

James Leonard Neff, 62, of Dayton, Texas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on October 22, 2025. Jim—known affectionately as “Jimbo” to his friends and family—was born on October 31, 1962, in Dallas, Texas, to parents Joe Tracy Neff and Judith Anne Miller Neff.

Jim spent the last 24 years in Dayton with his devoted wife, Lonna, after previously living in Crosby. He grew up in Irving, Texas, where he attended Nimitz High School. A strong man of faith, Jim loved the Lord and was a proud member of Kenefick Southern Baptist Church.

A classically trained operatic baritone, Jim had a lifelong passion for music and singing. He was well-known for his karaoke performances—especially his memorable rendition of “Statue of a Fool.” His booming voice and infectious enthusiasm made him a crowd favorite wherever he went.

Jim was also a talented golfer, having worked for many years as a golf pro at the Newport Country Club golf course in Crosby. In addition, he served as a level 2 inspector and procurement agent in his professional career.

Those who knew Jim will remember his larger-than-life personality and his gift for humor. He was quick-witted, loved to do impressions—famously doing “Trump better than Trump himself”—and could fill any room with laughter. His friends and family could always count on him to bring energy and joy to every gathering.

Jim loved camping with Lonna and their close friends, proudly being part of the “On the Road Again” camping group. He enjoyed playing LCR, humming a tune with every roll of the dice—a habit that quickly caught on with everyone around him. He also had a legendary love of cereal, known for creating imaginative “cereal concoctions” that were as unique as he was.

Family meant everything to Jim. He cherished his time with his loved ones and was especially close to his cousins, from camping trips to family reunions where he was always the life of the party.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Judith Neff; sister, Jackie DuPree; and grandson, Blaine Springer.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lonna Neff; father, Joe Neff; son, Justin Smith; daughter, Angela Taylor and husband Derek Taylor; sister, JoAnne Hudson and husband Weldon; grandchildren, Casey Springer, Briana Burditt, and Brayden Taylor; great-grandchildren, Mason Halbert, Makenna Halbert, Madilynn Halbert, Matthew Shepard Jr., and Opal Burditt; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends who will miss him dearly.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. for family and 10:00–11:00 a.m. for public at Kenefick Southern Baptist Church in Dayton, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Magnolia Park Cemetery in Dayton. Services will be officiated by Pastor Randy Bivens and Pastor Robert Blume.

Pallbearers will be Justin Smith, Jonathan Burditt, Steve Miller, PeeWee Farmer, Weldon Hudson, Derek Taylor, and Brayden Taylor. Honorary pallbearers are Mason Halbert and Matthew Shepard Sr.

The whole family deeply appreciates your love and support during this difficult time. If you prefer not to send flowers, we ask that you consider making a donation to Kenefick Southern Baptist Church in Jim’s honor.

Jim will be remembered for his boundless energy, his laughter, his love for life, and his deep devotion to his family, faith, and friends. His voice and spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.