James Buehner Neylon was born October 2, 1945 in Des Moines, Iowa the son of John D. and Martha (Schrodt) Neylon. 

He was raised in Des Moines and graduated from Dowling High School. Jim then attended Drake University earning a B.A. in History. In March of 1968, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served in Vietnam until his honorable discharge. He then spent 20 years as a trainer and recruiter for the United States Army. He also worked for the V.A. Medical Center in Knoxville, Iowa. Jim retired in 2005. 

In his retirement, Jim remodeled his home and built his own garden and park on the extra lot west of his home. Jim also returned to Drake University where he earned a Master’s Degree and became a substitute teacher at Knoxville High School. He enjoyed feeding the birds and a good cigar. 

Jim passed away Thursday, December 22, 2022 at MercyOne Hospital, in Des Moines, at the age of 77 years. 

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Ann Neylon, his brother, John Neylon, and his sister-in-law, Shirley Neylon. 

He is survived by his daughter, Amanda (Andy) Lancette of Eagan, Minnesota; grandchildren: Charlie and Henry Lancette, Lily Neylon, and Eve Steinbach; nephew Tim Neylon; and niece Jenny Neylon.

A Memorial Visitation for James Neylon, age 77 of Knoxville, will be held on Friday, December 30, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 PM at the Bybee & Davis Funeral Home, 301 North Second St, Knoxville, IA. A reception will follow at the V.F.W. John Myers Post #3519 in Knoxville. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the V.F.W. John Myers Post #3519 or to the American Legion Baty-Tucker Post No. 168.