Elbert Howard “Shorty” Neff, 95, of Essex Junction, Vt., and past winter resident of Florida for 39 years, passed away on July 8, 2026. He chose to spend his final moments peacefully at home, surrounded by family.
Born on September 22, 1930, Shorty was the biological son of Katherine O’Neil and Carl Neff and was lovingly raised by his aunt and uncle, Ruth (O’Neil) and Thomas G. Parizo. He grew up attending Essex Junction schools before answering the call to serve his country in the Korean War, where his leadership skills shone as a platoon leader and tank commander.
Upon returning home, Shorty married Jean Harriet Lunderville, with whom he shared 56 wonderful years until her passing in 2006. In their early years, they lived in Essex Junction alongside Jean’s mother, Minnie Merchant Lunderville. Shorty worked 32 years with New England Telephone & Telegraph, eventually retiring from Verizon as an in-house lobbyist in 1986. Deeply invested in his community, he spent much of his career involved in local politics and volunteering on numerous municipal and recreational committees.
Beyond his career, Shorty was a man who loved people and always had a story to tell. He was thankful for the many friends and adventures he and Jean shared during their retirement. He took immense pride in sharing his love for golf with Jean and their granddaughter, Ava. For the past 10 years, Shorty was blessed with the companionship of his special friend, Pearl Belanger of Florida.
He leaves behind his two daughters, Pamela Neff and her husband, Butch Greenwood, of East Randolph, Vt., and Catherine Neff and her husband, Michael Garvey, of St. George, Vt.; and his granddaughter, Ava Neff Lalancette, and her husband, Joe Henderson, of Sandpoint, Idaho.
The family offers special thanks to Dr. Paul Unger, Dr. Kevin Carey and the hospice team of the University of Vermont Medical Center for their dedicated care. And many thanks to the crew at the Essex Bakery for keeping a watchful eye and bringing joy to Dad for over 20 years.
A memorial celebration of Shorty’s life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to McClure Miller Respite House, 3113 Roosevelt Hwy., Colchester, VT 05446.