WISE, VA                                                         MAY 20, 2026

Oscar Cleveland Neece Jr., age 77, of Wise, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, at Norton Community Hospital after a courageous, private battle with myelodysplastic syndrome. He was surrounded by his loving wife, son, and family members.

Oscar was born in Trammel, Virginia, to Beatrice "Bea" and Oscar Neece. He was the oldest of five children and graduated from Ervington High School. As a young man, Oscar enjoyed hunting with his father and helping care for the family home.

After graduation, Oscar attended the University of Missouri until he was drafted into the United States Army. He served honorably in active combat during the Vietnam War and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant, receiving numerous medals, stars, and badges.

Following several years operating coal-related businesses, Oscar founded Timberland Express, providing wood products to coal mines and businesses throughout the region.

Oscar was fiercely competitive in every aspect of life — whether in business, tennis, or later, golf. He approached everything with determination and discipline. Every day, he worked to become the best version of himself, while encouraging those around him to do the same. His faith served as the foundation and guiding principle of his life.

Approximately three years ago, Oscar was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome. Throughout his illness, he continued working and playing golf without most people ever knowing he was sick — exactly the way he wanted it. Even while receiving treatments, Oscar regularly continued working multiple days a week until the final months of his life. His determination, strength, and unwavering will defined him.

Oscar felt a deep sense of responsibility to others. He remained committed to his business partners, employees, golf competitors, friends, and community. A man known for his routine of early mornings, hard work, and perseverance, he especially cherished the simple joys of his final months — afternoon naps and time spent with the people he loved most.

He was a mentor to many young men through his faith, his work, and the game of golf. Oscar was the kind of man who never ran away from challenges — he ran toward them. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Oscar was preceded in death by his parents, Beatrice Neece and Oscar Neece, and his brother, Roger Neece.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 51 years, Orana Sharon Neece; his sons, Michael (Misty) Neece and Tony Neece; his siblings, Shirley Sayler, Ray Neece, and Tim (Coetta) Neece; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Oscar always believed that when someone passed away, they should receive flowers. Flowers may be sent to Sturgill's Funeral Home, Wise, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family also encourages donations of blood at your local blood bank in Oscar's memory.

Friends and family are welcome to attend visitation at Sturgill Funeral Home on May 22, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Military honors will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Luke 15:20

Please visit www.sturgillfuneral.com to leave online condolences for the family.

Sturgill Funeral Home 1621 Norton Road SW Wise, VA 24293 is in charge of arrangements.