Matthew Douglas McNeill, 53, of Rockport, Texas, passed away on June 12, 2026. He was born in Kingsville, Texas, on June 19, 1972.

Matthew, or "Matt" as many knew him, was a devoted friend, cherished son, and loyal brother. Known by many nicknames and terms of endearment throughout his life, Matt made a lasting impression on everyone he met. He often referred to himself as "the Legend," a nickname that reflected both his sense of humor and his vast knowledge of sports and statistics. He attended Calallen High School and graduated with the Class of 1990.

Summers were always busy for Matt. Over the years, he worked for several businesses, including Wuensche Grain, unloading grain trucks; Denton Petroleum; and Owens Engineering, where he worked as an assistant.

Professionally, Matt worked for Bay Ltd. in Corpus Christi, on and off, for more than 20 years. During that time, he completed numerous refinery turnarounds, serving in roles such as boilermaker, pipe helper, and fire watch. As a boilermaker, he often worked in high-risk environments and at extreme heights. Despite the dangers, Matt embraced the challenge and took pride in the demanding work.

The saltwater captured Matt's attention at an early age, and what began as a hobby eventually became the next chapter of his career. Matt founded McNeill Saltwater Adventures, a fishing guide service operating on the Laguna Madre, where he became known as Captain Matt McNeill. Guiding came with its own challenges—long days, early mornings, high gas prices, and the daily pressure to help clients land "the big one." Yet Matt loved every minute of it.

After years of guiding and helping countless anglers create lasting memories, Matt transitioned into what he considered his dream job when he became Operations Manager at Marker 37 Marina. His heart was fulfilled in many ways, as he was able to continue working on the water, interact daily with local fishing guides, keep the store stocked with necessities, and tackle what he often stated was the biggest challenge of all: "keeping the bait alive."

For eleven years, Matt also served as a board member and weigh master for the Saltwater Legend Series. The Saltwater Legend Series is a competitive tournament honoring local anglers and their legacy. The series consists of tournaments held at three locations throughout the year. In addition, he served as the liaison for the Saltwater Legend Series and the TX Saltwater Inshore Fishing Hall of Fame.

In 2018, Matt completed his tenure at Marker 37 when the marina was sold to new ownership. In 2020, he moved to Rockport to help care for his parents as they grew older. Matt extended his kindness beyond his family, regularly greeting neighbors, checking on their well-being, and building friendships throughout the community while walking his dog. Even routine doctor's appointments became special occasions, often ending with a stop at Sonic or Chick-fil-A. This season of life became especially meaningful, allowing Matt and his parents to grow closer and strengthen their bond. In March 2025, his sister joined the household, bringing the family even closer together. This time allowed Matt and Elizabeth to develop a very special sibling bond while caring for their family and creating lasting memories together.

Matt had many passions, including saltwater fishing, bay and surf fishing, baseball, golf, and collecting coastal art. He appreciated artwork that reflected the beauty and spirit of the Texas coast. He was a devoted Houston Astros fan since 1980 and faithfully followed Texas A&M football, Calallen Wildcat baseball, and Fantasy Football. Matt was always tuned in to sports radio, eager to hear the latest trade news, player updates, and game analysis.

A true sports enthusiast, Matt possessed an incredible knowledge of baseball. His love for the game inspired a lifelong passion for collecting baseball cards, a hobby that began in 1980. His collection featured a strong emphasis on Astros memorabilia, including both vintage and modern cards, an extensive collection of Jeff Bagwell cards, and many other collectibles of baseball history. Matt enjoyed connecting with fellow collectors and sharing his passion for the hobby through his Instagram account, @astroshofstars, where he was known as "Matthew M. Sleeping Fishing Village" and built a following of more than 3,000 fellow collectors and baseball enthusiasts. Matt looked forward to continuing this passion through buying, selling, and trading cards, as well as launching a podcast with a fellow collector and friend.

Throughout his life, Matt touched countless lives and formed lasting friendships. He will be remembered for his quick wit, sharp mind, love of baseball, dedication to family and friends, and the kindness he showed to everyone around him.

Matt was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Cora and Victor Tally of Victoria, Texas, as well as his paternal grandparents, Peyton and Avie McNeill of Kingsville, Texas.

He is survived by his loving parents, Phoebe and Peyton McNeill of Rockport, Texas; his sister, Elizabeth McNeill; and his Australian Shepherd, Bailey. He also leaves behind many friends who felt like family, colleagues, fishing clients, fellow sports enthusiasts, and countless others whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Matt's legacy of kindness, loyalty, humor, and friendship will continue to live on through all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.