William "Bill" M. Neff

William “Bill” M. Neff, 64, of Columbus, passed away at home, surrounded by his loved ones on November 4, 2026. He was born in Columbus on April 8, 1962, to the late James and Corlyn (McGonigle) Neff.

Those left to cherish memories of Bill include his sons, Michael (Liz) Neff, Robert (Amber) Neff, Zakary Neff, and Shane Neff; grandchildren, Jovan Johnson, Isabella Neff, Joshua Neff, Jordan Neff, and Tabitha Neff; siblings, Jim (Bev) Neff, Christine Sims, Tom (Gina) Neff, and Elizabeth (Mike) Daugherty; aunts, Ann VanHoose, Martha Salyer, and Peggy McGonigle; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and many other family members and friends.

Bill also leaves behind several children he loved and considered his own, including Brittany Maynus, Matt McNabb, Breanna Rufai, Kristian Griffith, Sierra Dawn, and Ian Stricklan.

Along with his parents, James and Corlyn Neff, Bill was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, David Sims; his aunts and uncles, Jeannine and Harold Trump, Keith Salyer, George Neff, Woody McGonigle, Pat and Shirley McGonigle, and Mary and Mike Reinhard; Gene VanHoose; his niece, Kimberly Neff; Steve Joyce, who was like a second father to him; and Andy Stricklan.

Bill worked as a custodian for St. Aloysius and later the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation Department, where he took great pride in his work and spent over 20 years serving the community. He especially enjoyed the camaraderie he shared with his coworkers.

When he wasn’t working, Bill enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved listening to 70s and country music, watching sappy and cheesy movies, and, of course, drinking coffee. Anyone who welcomed Bill into their home knew to have extra pots brewing because one cup was never going to be enough. He also enjoyed listening to his police scanner, making jokes, and sharing stories. Although somewhat quiet and reserved at first, once comfortable, Bill’s personality would shine through with stories and the occasional well-timed one-liner. He especially enjoyed reminiscing about his younger years, growing up on Ogden Ave and Rivermont Rd, and the shenanigans he and his brothers would get into.

Bill was a devoted Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Bengals fan. He loved cheering on his teams, although those who watched the Buckeyes with him knew his patience could wear thin when they weren’t playing well. He wasn’t above turning off the game when things weren’t going their way. He also enjoyed going out to eat with his family whenever the opportunity presented itself, with favorites including York Steakhouse, Tee Jays, and Texas Roadhouse. Sharing a meal with family was always something he looked forward to.

Above all else, Bill loved his family. He was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren and never hesitated to let them know. He celebrated his children’s accomplishments, both big and small, and was especially proud of his boys. Whenever they reached milestones, whether earning their driver’s licenses, finding jobs they enjoyed, or making big moves in their lives, Bill was quick to share the news with his family.

Bill shared a special bond with his siblings and loved spending time with his extended family. He always looked forward to family gatherings and the opportunity to be surrounded by those he loved. Whether it was his children, siblings, or friends, when someone needed Bill, he was there. He had a kind heart and a willingness to do anything for anyone, never hesitating to lend a hand to those around him.

Even in his final days, Bill’s greatest concern remained his family. He wanted to know that his children and grandchildren were okay and that they would be all right. His love for them never wavered, and their well-being remained his priority until the very end.

Bill had a strong faith and a firm belief that God would always take care of him. Whenever life knocked him down, he would remind those around him, “God will take care of me,” and he always believed that to be true. He often spoke of one day hitting the lottery. While he may never have won the lottery here on earth, we believe he has now received something far greater: God’s promise of eternal life.

While Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, we find comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering. His greatest legacy will be the love he shared with his children, grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Luminary Hospice and, in particular, Bill’s care team: Kristen, Tiffany, Autumn, Lisa, Jennifer C., and Colin. We are incredibly grateful for the compassion, kindness, and care they provided to Bill and our family. We truly couldn’t have asked for a better team to walk alongside us during this difficult time.

Immediate family will greet friends and family from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday, November 16, 2026, at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Chapel, 3393 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio 43123. A service to honor Bill’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Chapel, Grove City. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at Green Lawn Cemetery, 1000 Greenlawn Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223.

The Newcomer family is honored to serve the Neff family. To leave a special message or memory for the Neff family, please visit the Guestbook.