Neil E. Scott Jr.

Neil E. Scott, Jr. was born on September 15, 1943 to the union of Neil Ellsworth Sr. and Earleen Scott; and, on September 16, 2024, he went peacefully to be with the Lord, surrounded by family and loved ones. Neil was a lifelong resident of the Columbus area and a 1961 graduate of Central High School. In March of 2017, Neil retired from the City of Columbus, where he worked for 29 years, first as a building manager, then as a Housing Code Enforcement Officer and later as a Code Enforcement Supervisor. 

As a youngster, Neil was a fun-loving and independent boy who loved playing outdoors with his friends. He would often go out in the morning and not come back until he heard his mother call him for dinner. As he grew older, he became an avid basketball player, regardless of the weather. He was even known to shovel snow off of a basketball court to play during winter months.

Neil was saved and filled with the Holy Spirit at 12 years of age, which is also when he learned to play the saxophone. When he was born, his grandfather looked at him and said “he’s going to be a saxophone player.” Little did he know! Neil’s parents encouraged him to practice every day, even though their ears suffered a lot! He continued to practice hard and he would play every chance he got – at home, at church and at school; and as time went on he could play any song he heard without reading music. It became evident that Neil had a natural God-given talent, and he became known around the city, state, and across the country for his unique, elegant and soothing tone.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Neil traveled with the nationally known gospel singing group, the Apostolic Clefs. Along with his velvety smooth singing voice, he would enhance their programs by playing the saxophone. He was very passionate about his ministry with the Apostolic Clefs, and he also spent several years in prison ministry as well. Many of the prisoners were positively affected by his music and his heart for the Lord. Some of them were released from prison and went on to become ministers of the Gospel themselves. Later Neil began performing with a well-known local singing group known as The Crusaders. He added a special touch to their music ministry by playing the saxophone, as only he could. 

Neil, who some called “Butch”, was a very compassionate person, always eager to lend a helping hand or share a smile. He had the unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of crossing paths with him.

In April of 1963, Neil was united in marriage to the love of his life, Virginia (Ginny) Painter, and to this union was born three sons; Tracy (1964), Rusty (1969) and Aaron (1970). 61 years of Holy Matrimony!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Neil, Sr. and Earleen Scott; his parents-in-law, Earl and Hattie Painter; and his oldest son, Boyd Tracy Scott. He is survived by his loving wife, Ginny; sons, Duane (Michelle) Scott and Aaron (Kerry) Scott and daughter-in-law Cynthia Scott; grandchildren, Robert Ryles, Adam Scott, Austin Scott, Aaron Scott, Lexi Scott, Troy Scott, Faith Scott; seven great-grandchildren; his brother, Terry (Deborah) Scott; his sister, Jackie Scott-Davis and many extended family and wonderful friends. 

Neil had been an active member of The Potter’s House Church of God, where he participated in the band, the choir, ensemble groups and the seniors’ ministry, Legacy, until his health no longer permitted.

Neil’s departure leaves a void that can never be filled, but his legacy of love and compassion will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, as spoken by his sister Jackie... 

A tribute to: "My Big Brother"

Although you are well known as Neil Scott, the sax player, I knew you best as “My Big Brother”. There are no words worthy enough to convey how much I will utterly miss you, but I find unspeakable joy in knowing where you are in the Spirit world. Well done, Big Brother. Well done. With undying love… until we meet again…your baby sis, Jackie

A memorial service to celebrate Neil Scott’s life will be held on Monday evening, September 30, 2024, at The Potter’s House, 3220 Lowell Dr., Columbus, Ohio 43204. Family will receive friends at 6:00 p.m. and service will start at 7:00 p.m.