MOLLUSK—Arthur Ramond “Art” Neira passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024.
Art was born on January 30, 1930, to Arthur R. Neira and Rose M. Neira.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn “Lyn” Neira; and his brother, Lou Neira.
He is survived by his three children, Bruce Neira (Connie Collaco), Sandy Goulding (David) and Betsy Fodor (Chuck); and five grandchildren, Jonathan, Kevin and Katherine Goulding, and Al and Amanda Fodor. In addition, he is survived by his brother, David Neira (Leslie); sister-in-law, Joyce Neira; and many nieces and nephews.
Art was born in San Antonio, Texas, but the family soon relocated to Endicott, N.Y., where he grew up. After high school graduation, Art enlisted in the Army in 1948 and proudly served in the Korean War where he reached the rank of sergeant.
After Art was honorably discharged in 1952, he attended and graduated from George Washington University with a bachelor’s in government in 1958. It was at GW that he met his soulmate, Lyn, and they were happily married for 69 years. Art and Lyn moved to Richmond in 1962 with their growing family where Art worked selling non-ferrous raw materials throughout the Mid-Atlantic for many years.
Art enjoyed fishing, hunting, horseshoes and puttering in his workshop. And Art did what all great dads do. He was involved with what his kids were involved in—helping with Scouts, driving for weekend synchro swim trips and baking the best carrot cakes ever for birthday parties! His Fish House Punch was famously served at Art and Lyn’s annual Christmas gatherings. Art was also an avid football and ACC basketball fan. One of his favorite gifts was when his beloved Redskins won the Super Bowl on his birthday in 1983 with a win over the Dolphins.
Art and Lyn retired to the Northern Neck (Mollusk) in 1997 where they lived off the land. He enjoyed crabbing and tending his vegetable garden but Art was happiest with a fishing pole in his hands. You would often see him trolling the Rappahannock River in his boat hoping to catch the big one!
He was involved in various causes, including a docent at Historic Christ Church, Junior Warden at St. Mary’s Whitechapel and a board member for SAIF Water.
Art and Lyn enjoyed traveling the world together and with good friends. The family always said there’d be a special place for Art in heaven for being such a kind and patient man. He’s come to claim that special place there now. He had an easy-going personality and a quiet strength. He had a quick wit, a dry sense of humor, and a smile that could light up a room. He will be missed.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the entire staff at The Westmont at Short Pump for their gentle care for Art these past two years. In addition, his family is appreciative of the guidance and support of Ann Willis and Ascend Hospice for making the transition so peaceful for Art.
Family received friends from 4-6 p.m. September 25 at Bliley’s Central, 3801 Augusta Avenue, Richmond.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. September 26 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 8787 River Road, Richmond. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association.
