With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Harold Eugene “Yogi” McNerney, a beloved father, grandfather, and devoted husband. Harold, known affectionately as Dad, Yogi, and Papa, was a proud United States Air Force veteran and a longtime resident of Pleasant Hope, Missouri. His journey began on August 19, 1947, in Springfield, Missouri, marking the beginning of a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Harold was the second of three sons born to John Edward and Faye Lorene (Humble) McNerney. Harold is preceded in death by his loving wife Jacklyn both parents and brothers Larry and Don McNerney.
Harold was a pillar of strength and support for his family, always striving to ensure their happiness and well-being. What we will remember most about Harold is his incredible love and tireless work ethic. He spent much of his time tinkering around the farm, often tending to the goats, working long hours, or enjoying his Sundays watching NASCAR. He was especially fond of Mark Martin. Many of our conversations revolved around topics like guns, racing, and farm life but it could stop in an instant to horseplay for hours. h He taught many of us what it truly meant to be an honorable human being and the importance of standing firm in our values of right and wrong.
We will always remember that no matter how busy or unwell Harold was, he would drop everything to be there for anyone who needed him. Even after he became ill, he showed great patience with all of us as we navigated new ways to communicate with him. He faced his illness with remarkable strength and resilience.
Harold, you are irreplaceable and will be profoundly missed. But we will take comfort in knowing you are now at peace, reunited with Granny, and both of you are watching over all of us. You have truly won the ultimate prize – peace and happiness after years of struggle.
Despite the challenges life presented, Harold faced them with courage and resilience, often offering his trademark two thumbs up as a symbol of reassurance to those around him and never saying goodbye without giving you a heart sign.
A celebration of Harold’s life and legacy will take place in the days ahead. A Visitation will be held on Monday, December 2, 2024, in Greenlawn Funeral Home, North from 5:00-7:00 p.m. A Graveside Service will commence at 10:00 am at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery on December 3, 2024.
Harold’s memory will forever be cherished by his daughter and her husband, Annette, and Joe Lynch; his stepdaughter and her husband, Terri and Jim Barnes, and his son, Todd McNerney. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, Cory McNerney, Amanda Lynch, Justin Lynch, Kimberly Rhodus, Kaylin Lynch, Justin Reaves, Scott Reaves, Shain Reaves-Chitwood, and Jimmy Barnes; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews, nieces, other family members and friends. As we bid farewell to a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many, let us remember Harold for his kind heart, unwavering dedication, and the enduring love he shared with all who were fortunate enough to know him.