"Junior"

Edgar Lee Neff

of Little Meadows, Pa and formerly of Ithaca, NY

Edgar Lee Neff, known affectionately as "Junior." to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, at Wilson Hospital in Johnson City, NY. Born on September 8, 1938, in Bickmore, West Virginia, Jr. lived a life marked by love, kindness, and adventure.

Junior was a man of remarkable resilience and work ethic. One of 13 children born to Lee and Georgie (Shamblin) Neff, he left school early to work alongside his father in the coal mines. With a spirit that yearned for growth and exploration, he ventured out of West Virginia as a teenager, making the bold journey on foot to New York State, where he would eventually lay down roots and build his future.

In Ithaca, NY, Junior became known for his entrepreneurial spirit, owning and operating Jr's Auto Repair and Ryan's Towing. He also owned and operated Huskytown Heavy Duty Truck Repair in Cortland. In earlier years, Junior owned Mineral Springs Restaurant in Groton, NY. His hands were skilled, and his knowledge was vast; he could fix just about anything, from small gadgets to heavy equipment. Jr.'s business acumen and mechanical expertise earned him respect and admiration in the community.

Family was the cornerstone of Jr.'s life. He is survived by his devoted companion and caregiver of 30 years, Marlene Jewett. His legacy continues through his children, Rebecca & Bill Josselyn, Charles & Elizabeth Neff, Edgar L. "Pete" & Paula Neff, and Frederick L. and Debra Neff; and his daughter-in-law, Virginia Knight. Jr.'s stepchildren, Tracy & Lori Jewett, Missy & Devin Brown, and Michelle, Patricia, and Heather Jewett, also hold dear the memories they created with him. He will also be missed by his dear friend Evelyn Knight. His siblings, Woodrow "Bud" (Janis) Neff, Clarence (Ramona) Shamblin, Ruby Ramsey, Sally (Oscar) Pennington, and Krista (Sammy) Smith, will miss their brother greatly. Jr. was a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, and his numerous nieces, nephews, and their families will fondly remember his warmth and guidance. He was predeceased by his parents, his wives Phyllis Courtney Bounton; Margaret H. Neff; his sons LaVerne A. Hutt and Patrick L. Neff, and his siblings Virginia Schoolcraft, Rosa Sharon Adkins, Linda Neff, Willis, Allen, and Charles Neff.

Junior found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved mowing his lawn, perfecting his landscaping, and most importantly, treasuring time with his family. His adventurous spirit never waned; he was known to spontaneously hop in the car and travel to distant places like Georgia or Maine, all for a good cup of coffee and the beauty of the journey.

Those who knew him would describe him as loving and kind, with an adventurous heart that inspired those around him. As Helen Keller once said, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." Junior embodied this sentiment, embracing each day as an opportunity for a new adventure.

We will gather on Saturday, October 26th at 2:30 pm to celebrate and remember the life of Junior at the Bumpville Bible Church with Pastor C. Kenneth Crain, officiating. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place , Memphis, TN 38105  (www.stjude.org)   or  the Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 (www.woundedwarriorproject.org)   in loving memory of Edgar L. “Junior” Neff.

Junior’s life was a testament to the power of love, hard work, and the courage to follow one's own path. He will be remembered not only for the life he led but also for the lives he touched along the way. His story is one of a journey well-traveled, and he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us. Rest in peace, Junior., and may your spirit soar on the winds of the adventures that await.