Gary Neely grew up in Mt. Holly with two brothers and three sisters. He graduated from Mt. Holly High School in 1970, earning 10 varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball. Gary and his wife, Teresa, are the proud parents of three children and grandparents to thirteen. They are active members of the First Presbyterian Church of Stanley, where Gary has contributed in various roles including treasurer, Sunday school teacher, deacon, and coach and referee for the youth sports ministry.

In addition to his church involvement, Gary has served on the Community Development Committee, the ABC Board, and both the Gaston County and local Hall of Fame committees. A history enthusiast, he has been a dedicated member of both the Mt. Holly and Stanley Historic Societies. In 2024, Gary was honored as the Mt. Holly Man of the Year.