Richard Ralph Neville, age 97, formerly of Cazenovia and recently of Ocean Pines, MD, died on Thursday, Dec. 26, at Coastal Hospice By the Lake in Salisbury, MD.

Richard was born in Buffalo and attended Syracuse University for his undergraduate studies in political science and for his PhD. After World War II where Richard served as a member of the 36th Engineer Regiment, Richard taught at Utica College before a long career with the Department of Defense as a political military analyst. Richard married his college sweetheart, and together they raised three sons.

After retirement in Cazenovia, Richard enjoyed many years as a member of the Civic Club, the Shakespeare Club, the Garden Club and the Watercolor Society. Richard enjoyed the theater, painting, gardening, and cheering on the Syracuse Orange football team. Richard was a member of the Fayetteville United Methodist Church. While living with his son in Ocean Pines, Richard attended the Community Church of Ocean Pines.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, the Rev. J. Wallace Neville and Ferne Liedy Neville, and his beloved wife, Ruth Currie Neville. Richard was also preceded in death by his grandson, Brian David Neville. Richard is survived by his sons, Thomas, and his wife, Marie Lynn; Bruce, and his wife, Cindy; and Bill, and his wife, Emily. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Robyn (and her husband, Damian), Heather, Meredith, Garrett and Connor (and his wife, Ravyn). He is also blessed with two great-grandsons, Xander and Asher. He is also survived by his lady love, Lorinda Thomas.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, at the Fayetteville United Methodist Church. Arrangements are in the care of Burbage Funeral Home of Berlin, MD, and Ayer and Zimmer Funeral Home of Cazenovia. Interment will be private in Oxford, N.Y.

Flowers or contributions may be sent to Fayetteville United Methodist Church.