Cornelius (Neil) Modinger III

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Cornelius (Neil) Modinger III, 75, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Blytheville, passed from this life on Aug. 2, 2021. Born to Cornelius “Conny” and Helen Thompson Modinger Jr., in Blytheville, he was a graduate of Blytheville High School and served his country with honor in the United States Army where he achieved the rank of captain during his three years of service and served one year in Vietnam.

Neil was an individual who was able to become proficient in just about anything he set his mind to accomplish. The walls of his home were adorned with many of the game trophies Neil secured in his hunting and fishing trips. He loved being able to sit and read his favorite books and spending time with his cat “Smokey” who was always into something. As a photographer, Neil had developed a very competent, skillful eye in his ability to look through the lens of a camera and catch just the right lighting to capture some really beautiful scenes.

Neil was employed for more than 30 years in the crude oil supply and trading department at ConocoPhillips. Not one to sit around after retirement, he became a master naturalist and volunteered at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center. Neil’s passion for the outdoors helped him to share his knowledge and to help lead others in understanding the need for conserving the natural resources we possess. Neil’s outgoing personality was perfect for meeting others and guiding them through the center.

Through his faith in Christ, Neil’s life calling has been to help by serving and meeting other’s needs. He found fulfillment in this important area of his life by becoming a member of Ashford Community Church.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Cornelius Modinger Jr., and his younger sister, Helen Teresa “Terri” Cesani.

Neil is survived by cousins, John and Edward Modinger; brother-in-law, Richard Cesani; and his beloved cat, Smoky, as well as numerous friends. Neil is also survived by many children and grandchildren of his friends, who lovingly called him “Uncle Moe”.

A graveside service will be held Sunday, Sept. 12, at 2 p.m. in Elmwood Cemetery, 601 North Division Street, Blytheville, under the direction of Cobb Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, Neil requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research or the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.