Navy League Mourns Passing of Former National President Sheila McNeill
Navy League and Georgia Icon Passes Away at 81
ARLINGTON, Va. — The Navy League of the United States is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its beloved past national president Sheila McNeill at the age of 81.
As 42nd national president (2003-2005), Sheila led the Navy League in supporting the men and women of the sea services, educating the public about maritime issues and advocating for the needs of the sea services on Capitol Hill. She was also the first and only female national president in the organization’s 121-year history.
“Sheila McNeill was an icon and inspiration to all who knew her,” said Navy League National President Christopher Townsend. “Her passion for public service and dedication to the Navy League mission were unparalleled. Sheila’s legacy will continue to guide and inspire us as we move forward.”
Sheila held several key roles during her 58 years with the Navy League, including national vice president for legislative affairs, national director of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, and member of the National Maritime Policy Committee. A legendary member of the Camden-Kings Bay Council, she took on challenging assignments and mentored future leaders with her extensive experience.
McNeill’s contributions to the sea services and her community earned her numerous prestigious awards, including the Secretary of the Navy’s Distinguished, Superior and Meritorious Public Service medals, the United States Coast Guard’s Distinguished and Meritorious Public Service medals, and the U.S. Armed Forces Spirit of Hope Award. She was also the first female recipient of the Spanish Navy League’s highest honor, the Golden Anchor Award.
Even outside of the Navy League, Sheila always put her nation’s needs before her own. She served as a Georgia state senator representing District 3 from January 2021 to January 2023, serving on multiple committees. Before running for office, she served as the vice chairman of the executive committee for the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services, visiting 45 U.S. military installations worldwide.
In addition to her professional achievements, Sheila was a devoted wife to Arlie McNeill, a Navy veteran, who passed away in 2023, and a loving mother and grandmother. Her legacy of service, leadership, and dedication will be remembered and celebrated by all who had the privilege to know her.
The Navy League of the United States and its 30,000-plus members extend their deepest condolences to Sheila McNeill’s family and friends during this difficult time. Her remarkable contributions to the sea services and her unwavering spirit will forever remain a part of our organization’s history.
About Navy League
The Navy League of the United States, founded in 1902 with the support of President Theodore Roosevelt, is a nonprofit civilian, educational, and advocacy organization that supports America’s sea services: the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and U.S.-flag Merchant Marine. Through national and local programs, the Navy League of the United States provides a powerful voice to educate the public and Congress on the importance of our sea services to our nation’s defense, well-being, and economic prosperity. The Navy League provides support to our sea services personnel and their families and youth programs, such as the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Junior ROTC, and Young Marines, that expose young people to the values of our sea services. For more information, go to www.navyleague.org.
Media Contact:
James Peterson
Communications Manager
Jpeterson@navyleague.org