James Richard Neill II (“Merlin”), 57, took his final ride to heaven on May 3, 2026, in Paducah, Kentucky. A devoted biker at heart, James found joy and freedom on the open road, cherishing the camaraderie of the biker community. Though he was unable to continue riding after losing his leg, his passion for the lifestyle and his love for life never wavered. He remained a man of great heart, resilience, and strength—always ready to lend a hand and share a laugh with those he loved.
Surviving are his wife, Tasha Neill; his daughter, Ashley Newcomb; his son, Jacob Neill; and his stepchildren, Jeremy Fairhurst, Brandon Fairhurst, and Michael Fairhurst, whom he loved as his own.
He is also survived by his sister, Diedre Neill; his brother, Bo Neill; his uncles, Lonnie Stroud and David Lynch; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
He will be especially remembered by his close friends David Pullen, Stanley Hudson, and Dennis Pittman, who were always there for him through every season of life. He also held a special bond with Jimmy Lemons, for whom he worked for many years and whom he loved and regarded as a father figure.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Hall; his father, James Neill; his grandfather, Carl Stroud; his grandmother, Nell Stroud; and his uncle, Danny Stroud.
A celebration of his life will be planned at a later date. In the meantime, we ask that you simply take a ride and cherish the freedom of the open road, as he always did in spirit.
