NEELY, MELVIN "RAY," 82, passed away Sunday, January 21, 2007. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil H. and Mae C. Neely; and brother, Carroll Neely. He is survived by his wife, Mary C. Wagner Neely; son, Craig E. Neely (Cindy); daughter, Shauna M. Neely; brother, Jack E. Neely (Marilyn) of Concord, CA; sisters- in-law, including Ann Neely; and many nieces and nephews, including Starla Neely -Gaddie (Glenn).

Ray served as a Paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne during World War II in the European Theatre. He was staff artist for his unit's newspaper and continued his career as an advertising graphic designer and calligrapher. He was a partner in graphic arts and photography studio. In 1981, Ray and his wife, Mary, started Neely Art & Prints painting "Tools of the Trades & Professions" and "Hot Air Balloons." With Mary's urging, he worked in watercolors, painting many subjects. His work is sold internationally. Ray will be remembered for his quick smile, witty comebacks and unique sense of humor.

Memorial visitation will be from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday at Highlands Funeral Home, 3331 Taylorsville Rd., with a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m.

(The Courier-Journal , Louisville, KY from 1/25/2007 - 1/26/2007)