McNeil McKenzie

McNeil “Possum” McKenzie, 49, beloved husband of Jenifer McKenzie, died Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2008, at Clarendon Memorial Hospital.

Born in Sumter, he was a son of the late McKiever McKenzie and the late Clara McKenzie. He was employed by Gamecock Drywall. McKenzie had a love for racing. Also known as “The Possum (No. 81),” he spent 18 years racing at Sumter Speedway and won numerous races and championships.

Survivors besides his wife include a son, John (Jennie) McKenzie of Sumter; a grandson, J.J. McKenzie; his father-in-law, John McLeod of the home; his sister-in-law, Judy McLeod of the home; four brothers, Randy McKenzie, Pete McKenzie, Royce McKenzie and McIver McKenzie; and five sisters, Jeanette McLeod, Gloria Diane McLeod, Faye McFarland, Maydell Richburg and Effie Mims.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Amy Lynn McKenzie; and his sister, Mary Frances Bell.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008, in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home chapel with the Revs. James McElveen and Raymond Tobias officiating.

Pallbearers were Jason McLeod, Jimmy Lyon, Derrick McLeod, Casey McLeod, McIver McKenzie and Charlie Austin.

Honorary pallbearer was J.C. McLeod.

Memorials may be made to the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, 8085 Saltsburg Road, Suite 201, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15239.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter was in charge of the arrangements.