Lestine Gold McNeely

Mrs. Lestine Gold McNeely, age 89, of Cornelia, Georgia, peacefully transitioned to eternal life on Wednesday, April 1st at 9:05 pm, surrounded by the love of her children and grandchildren and in the presence of the Lord.

Born on October 5, 1936, in Saint Matthews, South Carolina, Lestine was the beloved daughter of the late Abraham Gold and Rosa Lomas Gold. She was the youngest of twelve children, all of whom welcomed her into heaven. 

Raised in a Christian home, Lestine committed her life to Christ at an early age during her formative teenage years. She lived her life being led by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit—anchored in faith, guided by grace, and marked by quiet strength and unwavering Christian devotion.

She graduated from high school in South Carolina and, under the guidance of her older sister Addie (Gold) Davis, went on to attend and graduate from Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina. Continuing her academic pursuits, she later attended graduate school at Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia.

In 1963, she was united in holy matrimony to her beloved husband, William Paul McNeely, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, family, and enduring commitment. Later, along with her husband, Lestine became a resident of Cornelia, Georgia, where she would make a lasting impact on her community.

She was among the first to integrate the White County School District, serving faithfully as a librarian. Over the course of a distinguished 30-year career, she dedicated herself to education and the development of young minds, ultimately retiring as a Media Specialist at White County Elementary School.

Lestine was a faithful and dedicated member of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church in Athens, Georgia. Her life was a testimony of faith, humility, and spiritual fortitude. She did not simply profess her faith—she lived it.

She was the proud and loving mother of three children: W. Keith McNeely, Sr., Kyle D. McNeely, and Keyla Lestine McNeely.

She was also the cherished grandmother (affectionately known as “Neik Neik”) of three grandchildren: William Keith McNeely, Jr., Avery “Keaton” McNeely, and Addie Elizabeth, and a loving aunt to a host of nieces and nephews.

Lestine had a deep love for her family and treasured her time with them. She enjoyed shopping and dining with her church girlfriends and was known for her warm, friendly spirit—always enjoying good conversation, laughter, and meaningful connection with those she loved.

She will be remembered as a fun and loving mother, devoted grandmother, and faithful servant of God—who practiced charity and walked in kindness.

Her life was beautifully reflected in the words of Psalm 23—the Lord was her Shepherd, and she trusted Him fully.

A Celebration honoring the life of Mrs. Lestine Gold McNeely will be held Monday, April 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Chestnut Grove Baptist Church, 610 Epps Bridge Pkwy Athens, GA 30606, 706-548-1741. with Rev. Dr. Wilson Lattimore, Jr., Presiding. Entombment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park, Athens, Georgia.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 4-6 PM at the funeral home.

An online guest registry is available for the McNeely family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706-778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.