Earl Lynn Neves, 86, went home to the Lord on November 8, 2021, while surrounded by his wife and children.

Known as Pud, he grew up on a cotton farm in Fisher County. He then attended and graduated Howard Payne University on a track scholarship. A gifted long-distance runner, he earned numerous medals and enjoyed running with his teammates and friends. Both while in college and following, he served his country in the Army National Guard and on active duty in the Army as a tank driver.

A life alumnus of Sam Houston State, Earl fulfilled the university motto “The measure of a life is its service.” His lifelong passion was education and particularly in the importance of teamwork in sports. During his vast career, he became known as Coach, a name which followed him as he had a positive impact on hundreds of students. He coached in Eden, Lorena, Crosby, Galena Park, and Sheldon. He went on to serve as an Assistant Principal and later the first principal of Alice Johnson Jr. High in Channelview.

Most importantly, Earl put God and family first. For many years, he was active in Galena Park United Methodist Church and later First United Methodist Church of Sealy. A loving father and husband, he was deeply devoted to his wife Myra. All who frequented their home knew it wasn’t unusual to see him holding her hand, sneaking a kiss in the kitchen, or hearing him tell her he loved her. His pride in and love for his children was exemplified through his attendance of dance recitals and sporting events as well as in his coaching of girls’ softball and his involvement in Boy Scouting.

After retiring, Earl became an active member of the Retired Teachers Association. He also enjoyed his hobbies of woodworking and making pens as well as enjoying fellowship over coffee with the guys both in Galena Park and later Sealy. A Mason for over 50 years, he was a member of the East Bernard Lodge 817. An avid fan throughout his life, he cheered on Sam Houston Bearkats and the Houston Astros through thick and thin.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents Edwin P. and Kathryn Neves; his siblings Mary Ola Johnson, Edwin Neves, Tommy Jack Neves, Willie “Red” Neves; and grandson Ryan Henke. He is survived by his loving wife Myra, daughter Charisse Michna (John), son Derek Neves, daughter Alynna Henke (John), and son David McIntyre (Theresa). Surviving siblings include Roy “Curly” Neves, Clara Ann Jennings, Rosalie Harrison (Ray), and Bonnie Powell (Bobby). He is also survived by his grandchildren John Michna Jr (Kayla), Valeri Shaw (George), Cavin Henke, Tucker Henke, Kandra Fuchs, Trista Box (Craig) as well as great-grandchildren Emma Michna, Charlotte Michna, Walter Michna, Amelia Shaw, George Shaw III, Tristan Fuchs, Jillian McIntyre, Peyton Box, Kezlyn Box, Braylon Box, and a host of loved nieces and nephews.

Funeral service was held on Saturday, November 13, 2021, at First United Methodist Church in Sealy at 11 a.m. The family welcomed friends from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Interment followed the funeral service at Sealy Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements under the direction of: Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel, 768 Fourth St., Sealy, TX 77474, 979-885-3535, www.knesekfuneralhome.com.