On Friday, Sept. 4, 2020, William “Neil” Boland lost his brief battle with COVID-19 and gained his heavenly wings. Neil was born on Oct. 18, 1953, in Odessa, Texas, to Sue and Bill Boland.

A 1972 graduate of Breckenridge High School, Neil earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Tarleton State University, studied at Southwestern Baptist Seminary in Fort Worth and worked in retail grocery until his mind succumbed to mental illness.

He was sustained by unwavering faith. As a boy, Neil enjoyed Lincoln logs, electric trains, baseball cards, G.I. Joe action figures and riding stick horses.

His passion for basketball was second to his love of God. St. Paul United Methodist Church established his faith base with hymn favorites including “Standing on the Promises” and “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”

Neil was preceded in death by grandparents, Rev. Ross and Jewel Grace and O.L. and Lena Boland, and father, Bill Boland.

Survivors include mother, Sue Boland of Breckenridge; sisters Shalene Kerlin (Kelby) of Taylor and Michelle Jezisek (Michael McCarty) of Lubbock; brother, Chris Boland of Breckenridge; family, friends, Aunt Beth and Uncle Bill Calvert who loved him through his difficult challenges.

Private graveside services were held.