Mr. Nealy Atward Love

Deacon Nealy Atward Love, the oldest child of the late Al and Bettie Love entered this world on May 4, 1916 in Kemper County. He confessed Christ at a young age and became a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, where he was a faithful member. Deacon Nealy attended school first in Kemper County. Later, he went on to attend Harris High School in Meridian, MS. After Harris, he went into the military (Army) where he served during World War II and left as a Sergeant. Deacon Love returned back to Meridian where he worked at the Newell Paper Company. Later he went on to become a great Barber at Clayton Barber Shop where he served for many years. He was honored with a write up in the Meridian Star Paper for his many years of service as a Barber-being the oldest man that could still give a close shave with a steady hand with his razor. He loved his customers and they loved him back. They first came in alone and as their families grew, Deacon Love became the barber of many generations. He loved helping others look their best. Deacon Love was a Mason, a member of the NAACP, and many other organizations throughout his life. He always kept God first in his life going where ever he was needed-from church-to-church, person-to-person, always caring about others, friends, family, and anyone that needed a helping hand. HE WILL BE MISSED. If you were one that knew him, you were~. Deacon Love was joined in Holy Matrimony with Mrs. Laura Inge in 1998. They shared 16 years together. To this union two families united together. Deacon Nealy Atward Love was born to eternal life on November 1, 2014 in Meridian, MS. He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife, Laura Love of Meridian, MS; daughter, Bettye Jean Nelson of Yonkers, NY; son, David Ivy, Sr. (Barbara), of Meridian, MS; children and family of his heart, the Inge Family;grandsons, Curtis R. Nelson,Jr. of Mt. Vernon, NY; David, II, Keith, and Christopher Ivy, all of Meridian, MS; 15 great-grandchildren and a host of nephews and nieces, cousins, special friends, and his church family. Faye Inge, had a special place in Deacon Love's heart, not only did she take care of his needs, but also his wants. Thank you Faye, for your loving and caring ways. Deacon Love was predeceased by his parents, Al and Bettie Love; his first wife of 51 years, Mrs. Lamonia G. Love; brothers Lee Roy, Ramsey, and Ezra; sisters, Lizzie Mae, Albertha, and Mary Lu.

Mr. Nealy Atward Love

May 4, 1916 - November 1, 2014