Petland Announces Passing of Beloved Team Member Tony Neff after Battle with Cancer

After a courageous battle with cancer, Tony A. Neff passed away on June 13 at the age of 64. Neff devoted 46 years to Petland, the Ohio-based retailer, starting in the warehouse and retiring as the Director of Merchandising & Private Label. 

Petland released the following statement after Neff’s passing:

We are sad to share that Petland, and the pet industry have lost a legend with the passing of Tony Neff on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Tony devoted 46 years to Petland, Inc., beginning his career in the warehouse – right after high school. He retired as the Director of Merchandising & Private Label earlier this year.

“Tony was a catalyst in helping to build Petland’s distribution model into what it is today,” said Petland President and CEO Joe Watson. “Known for his incredible servant’s heart, Tony was always ready to step in and support any store in need. His behind-the-scenes work has touched every store location, and he did it all without fanfare, without complaint, and always with franchisees and customers in mind.”

Neff was the recipient of Petland’s 2025 Impact Award in July 2025. During his remarks, Watson stated, “Tony left Petland better than he found it.”

Haller Funeral Home, located at 1661 Western Avenue in Chillicothe, Ohio, is handling arrangements with the family. Visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026. 

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