Amye L. Jones-McNeil

Madame Dean Amye Lee Jones-McNeil was born in Hallsville, TX to C.L. Jones and Lou Bertha Hill. She graduated from Mary C. Womack in Longview, TX, and on November 29, 1975, she married the love of her life, Rev. R.T. McNeil.

Our beloved First Lady was a pillar of selflessness—a creator, teacher, innovator, nurturer, and serial entrepreneur. She proudly served as First Lady for over 40 years, 33 of those years alongside her husband at St. James Baptist Church. Her service extended beyond the church walls, making an impact both locally and nationally through her involvement in church and civic activities. She served faithfully as the Dean and President of the women's auxiliary of the Original West Texas Baptist District Congress of Christian Education and volunteered with Medical Center Hospital, CASA West, TX, and United Way.

When Rev. R.T. McNeil fell ill and could no longer serve as City Councilman, First Lady McNeil courageously stepped in, winning unanimously to fulfill his seat as City Councilwoman for District 1. At St. James Baptist Church, she spearheaded the Business & Professional Organization and Prison Ministry, further exemplifying her heart for leadership and outreach.

Many in the community knew her through her over 30 years of dedicated service at the Ector County Appraisal District. With a deep love for fashion, beauty, and hair, she created her own brand, “THE NEW YOU,” where her mission was to beautify and empower women through hairstyling, wig making, and beauty applications. She was also a proud Mary Kay business owner.

Through her love for young women, she welcomed girls from the church and community into her life, teaching etiquette and instilling strength and purpose in them. Her mission in life was always to help, better, and uplift others in every way possible.

First Lady McNeil is preceded in death by her beloved husband, the Late Rev. R.T. McNeil; her parents; two sons; one grandson; two sisters; and two brothers.

She is survived by her daughter, Amye Elisabeth McNeil. She shared three children with Rev. McNeil: Alicia (Don) Yancy, Dr. R. Timothy McNeil Sr., and Roger Timothy McNeil Jr. She leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, one sister, Velma Jean Atkins; one brother, Willie (Lee) Reliford; and her cherished companions, Coco, Versace, and Saks. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and loving friends.

The family of Madame Dean McNeil wishes to extend their sincere thanks to her doctors, hospice organization, medical providers, and all who offered kindness, prayers, thoughts, and deeds during this time.

Honorary pallbearers:

Dr. R. Timothy McNeil           Willie Reliford

Kenneth Allen Jr.                   Kenneth Allen Sr.

Rev. Sanders Wilkerson        Rev. Myron Waddle

John Lee Posey