Neil Qualls

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Neil Eugene Qualls, age 81, peacefully passed away at his home surrounded by his family at 7:30 am on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Neil, born on August 23, 1942, in Joplin, MO, was the son of Leonard and Grace Louise (Howell) Qualls and was lovingly raised by James and Margaret Shaw. A devoted lifetime resident of Galena, Neil's impact reached far and wide.

Neil graduated from Galena High School in 1961 and went on to play football and basketball at Ft. Scott Community College. A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, Neil served in the US Navy, demonstrating his dedication to his country.

Beyond his military service, Neil was a beloved member of his community, passionately contributing to its well-being. His influence extended to numerous young men as he coached Little League baseball and youth football leagues. Neil also actively led Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, leaving an enduring legacy of mentorship. In addition, he was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galena.

On July 19, 1974, Neil married Marcia A Larison, and together they created a lifetime of cherished memories. Marcia preceded him in death on July 16, 2016. Neil was also preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Grace Louise Qualls, and five siblings: Jimmy, David, Morris, Gary, and Billy, as well as his sister, Wilma (Qualls) Kooken.

Neil is survived by his two sons, Jim Adams (Kristi) and Jeff Qualls, both of Galena, and one daughter, Julie Barnard (David) of Joplin. Neil's grandchildren were the light of his life, including Bradley Barnard, Erin Dart, Samantha Mueting, Jimi Adams, Jordan Adams, Jurnee Adams, Justice Adams, Haylie Headen, Mason Qualls, Gracie Qualls, and Hayden Qualls, along with 13 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Carol Ray Qualls, as well as Mike Shaw and Shawn (Shaw) Newman.

Family and friends will fondly remember the countless hours spent fishing and playing on Shoal Creek at Pop’s Place, a testament to Neil's love for creating lasting memories with those he held dear.

Neil's final arrangements have been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS, for cremation.

A funeral mass to celebrate Neil's life will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, December 11, 2023, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galena, KS. Rosary prayers will precede the service at 9:30 am on the day of the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause close to Neil's heart.

May Neil Eugene Qualls rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to bring comfort and inspiration to all those who had the privilege of knowing him.