Neil R. Lacy, born on August 9, 1948, in Worland, Wyoming, left this life he fought so hard
for on August 18, 2024, at the age of 76. Neil was a beloved son, brother, husband, father,
grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who touched the lives of many.
Neil was part of the first graduating class of Lake Dallas High School in Lake Dallas, Texas,
in 1967. Shortly after graduation, he joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly
served his country during the Vietnam War. Stationed in Thailand, Neil served with honor
and dedication until his discharge in 1973.
In 1996, Neil married the love of his life and best friend, Elsie M. Bailey. Together, they
shared 28 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and family. They enjoyed wonderful
adventures, including trips along Route 66, to the Grand Canyon, and a memorable road
trip to Palm Springs. Neil and Elsie’s travels were highlights of their life together and added
many cherished memories.
Neil was often found at the table with a pencil in hand, sketching inventions and finding
solutions to complicated problems. His innovative spirit and dedication to improving systems
were evident in everything he did. Even in his final days, he was working on designing a
more efficient system for managing medical tubes and wires to help the nurses.
Neil was preceded in death by his father, Parnell Rae Lacy, and his granddaughter,
Anastarsia Patterson. He is survived by his mother, Barbara Lacy, and his loving wife, Elsie
Lacy. Neil is also survived by his sister, Teresa Jeter (Steve), his children: Angie Seiber
(Shane), Lisa Hickman (Jake), Hope Ruppanner (Trenton), Zach Patterson (Kim), Sam
Patterson (Christy), and Samantha Moore (Jeremy), as well as former daughter-in-law Vita
Shults.
Neil was a proud grandfather to Hannah, Cody, Camryn, Monet (Jeff), Logan, Derek, Ezra,
Gabe, Nehemiah, and a great-grandfather to Ruby and Hope.
Neil found joy in reading books by Louis L'Amour and John Grisham. Music was a
significant part of his life, with Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, and Pink Floyd
among his favorites. He cherished the memories of seeing Willie Nelson and Joan Baez
perform live, moments that held a special place in his heart. Neil appreciated the simple
things in life, including a cold beer, a hot cup of coffee, and good conversation.
He cherished trips to the beach, where he loved getting up early to watch the birds and
dolphins. Neil took pride in his hard work, and he was known for his integrity—he always
kept his word and was loyal to a fault. His many sayings left an impression on those around
him, with one of his last being, "If I am in for a penny, I am in for a pound."
Neil’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Satellite Dialysis Center, Dr.
Ashvin Baru, Dr. Tolan, Dr. Vaisman, Drs. Rebecca Traylor and Sheila Kennedy with the VA,
and the many doctors, nurses, and medical staff at Ascension Seton Hays for their
dedicated care of Neil over the past several years.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Kidney Fund at
[give.kidneyfund.org](https://give.kidneyfund.org).
Neil’s legacy of kindness, service, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He
will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him.
A celebration of Neil’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to
honor his memory and the incredible life he lived.
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