John Neely Reames

John Neely Reames peacefully entered into eternal life with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 31, 2024, at Palm Gardens of Gainesville, Florida. He was 80. Be grateful for the joy and contributions of his life.

He was born John Neely Reames in Gainesville, Florida, on November 9, 1943, the son of Earl Mitchell and Jean Louise Neely Reames. He was ‘Old Gainesville’ being a lifelong resident.

At the age of two John suffered from permanent mental and physical debilitating effects of encephalitis. Despite the severe ramifications of this incident and its lifelong impact, John always maintained a positive attitude about life and his response to events. He earned Eagle Scout with no waivers, was a recipient of the God and Country Award and held The Vigil Honor of the Order of the Arrow, the highest honor bestowed upon its members for service. He graduated from P.K. Yonge Laboratory School in 1963, Santa Fe College and the University of Florida. He was a lifelong Gator, an avid reader and
Civil War Historian.

Mr. Reames was a Member of Highlands Presbyterian Church where he maintained a lifetime membership. While there he served in many positions for the Church. Noteworthy were his years as a Deacon and Elder of the Church.

He worked as an intern for Nationwide Insurance and was a longtime Librarian at Santa Fe College.

He is survived by his brother, Joseph (Joe) M. Reames (Margery), two nephews, Joseph (Mitch) M. Reames Jr. (Maggie) and Richard (Bo) Travis Reames (Monica), and niece Cara Elizabeth Lee. He was preceded in death by his parents Earl Mitchell and Jean Louise Neely Reames.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the staff of Palm Gardens of Gainesville for their compassionate care and excellent nursing in his final years.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Wounded Warriors Project be considered.

A Celebration of Life for Mr. Reames will be conducted Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Milam Funeral Home Chapel, 311 S. Main Street, Gainesville, Florida, 32601. Attendees are encouraged to wear their finest Gator attire in memory of John!