Cecil Neff

Cecil Neff, Palestine, passed away Sunday, December 15 at home surrounded by his family. He was born in Geff, IL, the son of Roy and Lorena (Birckett) Neff. Cecil spent his childhood in Cisne, IL. He served in the United States Air Force as an airplane mechanic.Cecil€™s career took him across the oilfields of Southern Illinois and many states beyond. He was often called upon throughout the industry for his specialized knowledge and expertise. Cecil spent many years with Baker Oil Tools. In 1984, he founded Alliance Oil Tools in Olney, IL, where he designed and patented his own specialty tool, the Model €œP€ packer. In his retirement, Cecil enjoyed spending time in Southern Pines, NC. He was always proud to call Palestine home.Cecil was preceded in death by 10 siblings and a son, Gary Neff.He is survived by his wife, Patty (Wakefield) Neff; his sons and daughter-in-law, Greg Neff, Paxton, IL and Michael and Michelle Neff, Fishers, IN; and his beloved grandchildren.It was Cecil€™s desire not to have a funeral, but rather for people to share happy memories of him. A Celebration Visitation of Cecil€™s life will be on Thursday, December 19 from 4-7 PM at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Memorial gifts may be made to the Palestine Senior Citizen€™s Center or Lincolnland Hospice, with envelopes available at the funeral home.