William “Bill” E. McNelly, age 95, of Grove, OK passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at Grove Nursing Center. Bill was born on January 2, 1924 to Frank and Ruth (Ratcliff) McNelly in Bentonville, AR. Bill entered the work force at a young age and had several different occupations throughout his life, ranging from plant supervisor and construction supervisor. He owned McNelly Wrecker Service and McNelly Hotel in Bentonville. On February 5, 1943, Bill married the love of his life, Buanita Cowden in Wichita, KS. The couple later made their home in Bentonville, AR until moving to Grove in 1987 to be closer to family. While in Wichita, Bill became a member of the 32nd degree masons. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Buanita McNelly, one daughter, Tammy Darlene, four brothers and one sister. Left to cherish his memory: daughter, Debbie Shaw and husband, Charlie of Grove, OK; grandsons, Jacob Dee, Micah Dee, Weston Shaw and wife, Dani, Ethan Shaw, T.J. Shaw and special friend Mary Morris; many nieces and nephews, 5 great grandchildren. Visitation will be held from 5-7pm Saturday, May 18, 2019 at Nichols-Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral services will be held at 3pm Sunday, May 19, 2019 at First United Methodist Church. Pastor Randy Hamill to officiate. Graveside services will be held at 11am Monday, May 20, 2019 at White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Wichita, KS. The family request that donations in Bill’s honor be made to the Grove Sr. Citizens Center, 145 E O’Daniel Pkwy, Grove, OK 74344. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of William “Bill” E. McNelly please visit our Sympathy Store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of William Bill E McNelly January 2 1924 May 14 2019.
Nichols Funeral & Cremation Services
Death notice for the town of: Grove, state: Oklahoma