Frances Arlene McNeill's Obituary
Frances Arlene McNeill passed away peacefully on December 27, 2023, after a series of debilitating strokes. She was born in Gainesville, Florida August 14, 1946, to Dorothy Lucille Sims McNeill and Archie Franklin McNeill. She was the youngest of four sisters. Fran, as she was called by all of her friends and family, graduated from Gainesville High School in 1964 and later earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism from the University of Florida.
Early in her career, Fran moved to Davie, Florida where she worked as a Commercial Real Estate Broker, procuring properties nationwide for the Carvel Ice Cream Company. After leaving Carvel, Fran worked as a commercial leasing agent for various shopping centers in Broward County before moving back to Gainesville to continue her education. Fran worked as a substitute teacher in Alachua County and was a staff member at the Main Alachua County Library and the Micanopy Branch Library for a number of years.
In the early 1980s, Fran discovered her true passion when she adopted a tiny Schnauzer puppy named Little Guy, who became her constant companion. This “little guy” lead to another and another and another as Fran moved from pet owner to a dog rescuer as well. She fostered many dogs over the years, and that became her life’s work. Her four-legged babies gave her companionship, comfort, and purpose.
All who knew Fran know that once she set her mind to something, there was no stopping her. She was blessed to have many friends, some of whom she had known for a lifetime, and their support over the years and especially over the last two months meant the world to her. Fran was smart, determined, and, yes, strong-willed too. She will always be remembered for her phenomenal memory, down to the last detail of everything from books she’d read to trips and conversations from many years ago as well as recently.
Fran was predeceased by her parents, her sisters Ruth Palmer and Sandra McNeill Kelley Newberry, and her niece Carole Ann Palmer. She is survived by her beloved sister, Joan Hogan and brother-in-law Rollin Hogan, who were like second parents to her. Fran is also survived by her niece Lanita Hogan Brown, nephew Scott Kelley, niece Cynthia Kelley Peterson, much-loved and steadfast friend, John Rich, four grandnephews and three grandnieces.
In honor of Fran’s wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial service. If you are inclined to make a memorial gift, donations may be made in her name to Pets in Distress Ocala, Inc.
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