James Mcniel

Hickory – James R. “Jim” McNiel, age 83, passed away on Monday, August 17, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Caldwell County on May 5, 1937 to Roscoe and Maude McNiel. Jim resided in Dalton, GA for more than 50 years before returning to Hickory 10 years ago. He was a veteran of the United States Navy. He was a loving Poppy to Katie and Ian and will always be remembered for his acts of kindness. He was a floral designer and had the amazing ability to grow anything. Jim was a member of Dry Ponds Baptist Church and the “Young At Heart”. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Freida Bonner McNiel; brother, Tommy McNiel; and sister, Elzena Blackburn. Jim is survived by his daughter, Laura Blevins and son, Joel McNiel both of Ringgold, GA; granddaughter, Katie McNiel Blevins and grandson, Ian Connor McNiel; sisters, Verna McCall; Dare Duncan; and Nelia Winters; brothers, Odell McNiel; and Curt McNiel; and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service for Jim will be held at Dry Ponds Baptist Church at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Dry Ponds Baptist Church “Young at Heart”, 5235 Union Church Road, Granite Falls, NC28630 or, Carolina Caring Hospice, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC28658. Online condolences may be sent to www.evansfuneralservice.com Evans Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the McNeil family.