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Obituary of Robert Neff
Robert Sherwood “Bob” Neff, Sr., 92
WINTER HAVEN - Bob Neff of Winter Haven, FL passed away at Good Shepherd Hospice, Auburndale, on Friday, October 5, 2018 after a brief illness. His loving daughter, Ellen, was by his side, supporting and comforting him, as his spirit went on to meet his Lord.
Bob was born in Harrisburg, PA on September 13, 1926, son of the late Norman J. and Claire E. Neff. Upon graduating from high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Navy Armed Guards during World War II. Bob served the country he loved with both bravery and humility, never wanting recognition for his time of service.
After being honorably discharged from the military, Bob met his beautiful wife, Ernestine, while working at a Rea & Derick Drug Store. He was her boss and one day required she work late, causing her to miss the bus ride home. He discovered later what he had accidently done, and drove her home. From that moment on, he found himself courting her! Ernestine and Bob married April 2, 1950 and shared 64 wonderful years together. They were blessed with three children, Kathleen Louise, Robert Sherwood, Jr., and Ellen Elizabeth. Bob is survived by both his daughters, his son, one sister named Edythe McPherson, eight special grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren.
Bob provided for his family by working for the Bell Telephone Company in PA for 37 years, but his true ministry began when he retired, and moved to Florida. Bob and Ernestine began volunteering for an organization known as P.R.I.D.E. (Parent Resources and Information on Drug Education) of Polk County. He began to become educated about the negative effects of illegal drugs, was soon considered an expert in the field, and was sought out by the community for speaking engagements. Bob became Program Director of P.R.I.D.E., designing floats for the “Just Say NO to Drugs” rallies and parades and began speaking at various colleges, educating others on drug abuse and prevention. This led to future employment for Bob with the Polk County Sherriff’s Department, as he continued his ministry fighting the war against drug abuse in the community.
Bob Neff spent most of his life serving others due of his deep love and gratitude towards his Savior and Lord. Bob will be truly missed by his friends and family.
A visitation will be held Saturday, 10/13/18 from 12:00 - 1:00 with a celebration of his life following. Both are being held at the First Church of the Nazarene, 560 3rd Street SW Winter Haven, FL.
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