Robert Eugene Neely

Robert Eugene Neely, age 81, of Damascus, Virginia, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born September 12, 1944, to the late Wilton Eugene Neely and Teen Dunn Neely Buckley; additionally, he was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Janet Barker Ragan, and brother-in-law Dennis French. 

A lifelong resident of Damascus, Eugene lived a life rooted in family, faith, service, and fellowship. He was a machinist for 37 years at Marion Mold and Tool, where he enjoyed a career and made lifelong friendships. He was an avid golfer, making 2 holes in one over his time of playing. His love for chocolate ice cream, chewing tobacco and looking for deer, will forever be remembered. He was a proud member of the Damascus Church of Christ, a longtime member of the Damascus Volunteer Fire Department, and honorably served his country as a member of the Army Reserves.

Eugene’s devotion to the Masonic fraternity spanned five decades. Initiated as an Entered Apprentice on March 21, 1975, he was passed to the degree of Fellowcraft on May 1, 1975, and Raised a Master Mason on May 24, 1975. In May 2025, he received his 50-Year Service Award, honoring a lifetime of dedication. He faithfully served as Secretary of Liberty Hall Lodge No. 104 AF&AM for over 30 years and was elected Worshipful Master in both 1981 and 2013. In 1988, he was appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the 46th Masonic District. Beyond his titles, Eugene was a mentor to many, sharing his wisdom and guidance with countless brothers over the years.

Family was the joy of Eugene’s life. He is survived by his two loving daughters, Betsy Neely Fritz and husband Jeff, and Robin Neely Dixon and husband Billy. He was a proud grandfather to Lauren Sauls and husband Jared, Matthew Fritz, Andrew Fritz, Reed Dixon, and Allie Dixon; and a devoted great-grandfather to Everly and Eli Sauls, who were the light of his later years.

He is also survived by his sister, Darlene Neely French; three aunts, Wilma Miller, Irma Dunn and Dottie Dunn; several nieces and nephews; and ex-wife, remaining friends for many years, Gayle Neely. 

Eugene’s legacy is one of love, devotion, and service—to his family, his community, his lodge, and his Lord. He will be remembered for his steady presence, kind spirit, and the example he set for all who knew him. 

His brethren will remember him as a true and faithful Mason, whose labor has now been completed.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at Frost Funeral Home from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. with a service to follow at 7:00 P.M. with Minister Walt Staude and Speaker Jeff Fritz officiating. Military Rites and Masonic Rites by Liberty Hall Lodge 104 will be held.

A committal service will be held at Sunset Memorial Park on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. those wishing to attend are asked to meet at Frost Funeral Home by 1:15 P.M. to follow in procession.

Serving as pallbearers will be Wes Roberts, Matt Garett, Gail Blevins, Jim Vernon, David Hall, Larry Brown, and Jared Sauls.

Honorary pallbearers will be Don Ratliff, Johnny Wilcox, Rick DeArmond, and Sam Blevins.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. Robert Eugene Neely.