Death of Charter Member William McNeely November 1, 2007 The NYPD Emerald Society mourns the loss of a true legend of the department. Bill died suddenly at the age of eighty-two while at home in Staten Island, while with his wife of fifty-six years Mary. The Brooklyn born World War II veteran served in the US Navy as a parachute rigger. In 1948 he began his long illustrious career with the NYPD. With much enthusiasm he started by pounding a beat in Manhattan. Within a few years he was part of a group of Irish Americans in the department who founded the Emerald Society back in the early 1950's. Bill was among the first card carrying members when the Society's Charter was first enacted in 1953. While in uniform McNeely earned a reputation as a tough as nails street cop who protected the citizens of Manhattan's Westside. He took great pride in keeping his foot post clean and the bad guys feared him. After proving himself on the mean streets he was rewarded with a promotion to the Detective Bureau. It was as a Detective that he realized his best years on the job. His determination and tenacity along with his knowledge of the street were renown. On many occasions when he found himself or another cop in a tough situation he would not hesitate to step forward into harm's way. Being brave and leading the way, was the style in which Detective Bill McNeely got things done. For his many exploits he was once again promoted and achieved the rank of second grade detective. His courageous and exciting career ended in 1974 with his retirement. In his later years he loved reminiscing about the good old days in the job. He was often urged to write a book about his many experiences. Throughout the years Bill stayed quite active with the Emeralds and attended monthly meetings. He and Mary loved going on the Emerald trips to the Catskills. There he would get together with old friends, while always reaching out and making new acquaintances. Bill loved to sing a few songs and tell a joke or two. He certainly was the classic Irish story teller and could entertain his friends with great tales. He is survived by Mary and his 5 grown children Susan Hudec, Sharon Cesario, Coleen Kumar, Jacqueline Vuono and Billy McNeely Jr. and he will be missed by many.