Geneva "Eva" Jean McNeil

Geneva Jean McNeil, affectionately known as Eva, was born on August 3, 1962, in Duplin County, NC. She departed this life on September 10, 2025, at CFVMC in Fayetteville, NC, leaving behind a legacy marked by love, family, and cherished memories.

Eva was known for her warm spirit and culinary skills, particularly her famous fish & chicken, a dish that brought joy to many gatherings. Her passion for cooking was matched only by her devotion to her family. She took great pride in her role as a mother and a grandmother. 

She leaves to cherish her loving memories, a daughter: Sherik McNeil of Charlotte, NC, two sons: Tony McNeil, and Marcedo McNeil, both of Garland, NC. 

Family was the cornerstone of Eva’s life. She is survived by her loving mother: Geneva Hill of Garland, NC, along with her sisters: Nancy McNeil, and Letha Ree Murphy, both of Garland, NC; Gail Highsmith, and Diane Murphy, both of Harrells, NC. Two aunts: Letha McNeil of Raleigh, NC, and Violet McNeil of Garland, NC, and an uncle: William “Boney” McNeil of Clinton, NC. Eva shared a special bond with her dear friend, Jimmy Parker, who was an important part of her life. Affectionately nurturing her grandchildren: 16 grandkids; 2 great-grands, and a host of nieces, nephews, and a special friend: Veronica Thomas. 

Eva was preceded in death by her father: Willie Paul Murphy, and her sisters: Ella Jane Murphy; Willie Mae Murphy, and Lillie Doris McKoy, and her grandmother, Johnnie Irene McNeil, whose memory she carried with her throughout her life.

The community is invited to commemorate Eva's life through a viewing on September 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Carter Funeral Home in Garland, NC. A funeral service will be held the following day, September 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM, also at Carter Funeral Home, followed by her interment at Garland Community Cemetery at 3:30 PM.

Eva's spirit will live on through the many lives she touched and the love she shared. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.