Final Salute

Donal Neelon – known for his legendary belly dances, red hair, and shocking jokes – passed away on April 5th at the age of 88.

Donny was born in Hyde Park, MA, in 1935, the youngest of seven children. After graduating from Hyde Park High School he enlisted in the Navy Seabees, serving in California, Bermuda, and Cuba. He spent his summers on Plum Island, MA, where he met the love of his life, Sheila, who happily and patiently put up with his antics for over 65 years. Together they raised three children: Mike, Billy, and Kathy. Donny and his family resided in Franklin, MA, where he worked as a lineman for Boston Edison before retiring to live on Plum Island full-time in 1993.

Though he “retired,” he never stopped working. If you ever had the audacity to park at Newburyport Whale Watch with New York plates, you probably knew Donny as the local grump. He was employed there by his son as the world’s most ornery parking attendant.

For his six grandkids, though, “Poppop” was the biggest-hearted guy you could ever meet. He took no greater pride than in the family he helped raise and support tremendously over the years. From sunny afternoons spent on the deck, to annual trips to Whalom Park, to fishing, to helping out in the garden, to epic 4th of July and Christmas Eve parties, there was nothing more fun than a day spent with Don Boy. He never missed a performance, game, or important life event, even if it meant driving across a few states to get there. His humor and wit were matched only by his kindness and devotion to his family.

Donny is survived by his wife Sheila Neelon; his three children Mike Neelon (Patti), Billy Neelon, and Kathy Comins (Andy Macdowell); six grandchildren Caitlin Neelon (Eric Freeman), Ryan Neelon (Ashley), Kyle Neelon (Alex Fish), Lindsay Comins, Jessie Neelon (Jon Comrie), and Bert Comins (Becca); four great granddaughters Sylvie Neelon, Izzy Comrie, Lennie Freeman, and Maeve Comins; sister Katherine Curley; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Donny was predeceased by his parents John and Katherine Neelon; brothers John Neelon Jr., Kenny Neelon, and Bobby Neelon; sisters Flo Norton and Helen MacIsaac; son-in-law Bert Comins; and daughter-in-law Karin Neelon.

The family would like to extend their apologies to the man who once asked Donny for his autograph thinking he was Carroll O’Connor. The signature he gave you isn’t real.

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 14, 2023.