It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Brett Neill, age 61, who passed peacefully in the early hours of May 19, 2025 at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina. He was surrounded by the love of his life Teressa and daughter Gabrielle. He left this world as gently as he lived in it. He is preceded in death by his father James Riley Neill.
Born in Asheville, North Carolina Brett was a quiet soul with a heart full of kindness. After marrying the love of his life Teressa the two began their life together in Hickory, North Carolina. A few years later they relocated to Greenville, South Carolina where they spent two decades building a home and welcoming their greatest joy, their daughter Gabrielle. He was a devoted father, loving husband and a constant source of calm and strength for his family.
For more than 20 years Brett served his community as a paramedic and first responder in Greenville, Catawba and Belton counties. He was the kind of person you wanted by your side in a crisis, steady, compassionate and selfless. His career was not just a job; but a true calling to care for others in their most vulnerable moments. In 2006 he and his family returned to his hometown of Burnsville, where he continued his commitment to hard work and service as a valued team member at Lowe’s Home Improvement. Whether helping customers or lending a hand to a neighbor he was known for his gentle and thoughtful nature and willingness to help anyone who needed it. Above all Brett cherished his family. He found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved; whether it was quiet evenings at home, traveling or sharing laughter on cruises with friends. His gentle spirit, easy smile and steadfast presence will be missed more than words can express.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Teressa; his cherished daughter, Gabrielle; his loving mother, Iva; mother-in-law, Ruth; brothers: Jeff and Tim and their families; and a brother-in-law, Bobby and his family. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know and love him.
A memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025 in the chapel of Yancey Funeral Services.
In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that donations be made in his honor to a heart disease research foundation or an emergency services charity of your choice, as they were causes close to his heart and his life’s work. Though his time here was far too short Brett leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and quiet heroism that will never be forgotten.
To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservices.com.
