Calvin McNeil Sr.

Calvin C. McNeil, Sr., departed this life Monday, May 8, 2017 at the Regal Care Nursing Home. He was born in Wilson, NC on September 4, 1926, to the late Matthew and Ola Bell McNeil. He was the seventh of thirteen children. He attended the public schools in Wilson, North Carolina area. Moving from Wilson, NC he worked several jobs throughout the years including working in a Fertilizing Plant in Virginia, Balden Anchor, Chester, PA, Winchester Repeating Arms and Armstrong Rubber Company making tires until he retired in 1982. Calvin learned how to sing at a young age, singing in various quartet groups. Calvin formed a singing group in Chester, PA called the Mount Eagle Quartet in the early 40’s, which had a signed contract with Gotham Record Company in 1948 and recorded six 78’s. After moving to New Haven, CT in 1955, Calvin joined a group called the Thunderbirds. Continuing his love for quartet singing he formed his own group called The Mellowaires. Calvin joined Church of God and Saint of Christ under the leadership of Bishop Robert Stallings. He sang in the choir and they recorded an album. He later joined Bethel AME Church under the leadership of Rev. Elliott Mayfield. He sang with the Male Chorus and the Gospelite Choir. He was an active member for many years until he was not physically able to attend. Calvin married Sylvia D. Hayes March, 1970. Besides his wife, he is survived by six children, Marie Thompkins, Sylvia G. Hayes, Darlene H. Daniley, Christine D. Washington (Kenneth A. Jr.), Jacqueline Douglass and Calvin C, Jr.(Michelle), one sister, Rebecca Pender, New Haven, CT and two brothers, Herman McNeil, Landover, MD and Joseph McNeil, New London, CT., 13 grandchildren, Deena Tillery (Christopher), Shirley Joyner, Denise Joyner, Caprice McNeil, Latrece Santiago, Natrece Mayes, Yvette McKoy, Kenneth A. Washington, III (Faith), Kyle Washington, Johnetta Daniley, Demetrius Daniley, Nichole Washington, Savien Daniley, five great-grandchildren, Edison Santiago, Devin Tillery, Branden Tillery, Destiny Joyner, Zyaire Burrell and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. One longtime best friend for over 60 years Gad Troxler. He was predeceased by four brothers, Matthew, Jr., William Chester, Rudolph and David, five sisters, Esther Murphy, Jessie Cooper, Christine Isler, Beatrice Hines and Romaine McDermott and one son Earl Thompkins. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Calvin McNeil Sr.

September 4, 1926 - May 8, 2017