Robert P. McNeill

Robert P. McNeill, 1938–2026                                                                                                                                                                       Attorney, public servant, runner, and vintage racer

Robert "Bob" McNeill, a respected Albuquerque attorney and lifelong public servant, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026. He was 87.

Bob earned his B.A. and J.D. from the University of New Mexico and practiced law in New Mexico for over five decades. His legal and political career included serving as Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Joseph Montoya and later to Governor Toney Anaya. He also held leadership roles in state government, including Cabinet Secretary and General Counsel for the Department of Health and Environment.

Bob ran for New Mexico Attorney General in 1986. Despite a strong campaign, he lost by a narrow margin, just a few hundred votes, after a snowstorm depressed voter turnout in Northern New Mexico, a detail he would later recount with both frustration and humor.

Bob was a man of motion. A dedicated athlete, he completed the New York Marathon and several others, winning countless local 5K and 10K races. He also spent more than 30 years racing Porsches and Formula Fords in vintage road events with Southwest Motorsports and the Rocky Mountain Vintage Racers. His two racing crashes became favorite stories, especially when swapped with members of the Unser family.

He gave back generously, serving on the boards of NM Voices for Children, Encino House, NM-PBS, and as general counsel to The Archaeological Conservancy. He offered legal advice freely to friends and public servants alike, always more interested in helping than billing.Bob was known for his storytelling, robust political networks, and irreverent charm. He contributed tirelessly to the Democratic Party and was a trusted friend to many of its candidates and leaders.

Out of respect for the privacy of certain public officials, we won't retell the most colorful of Bob's stories here. You know who you are.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Vera McNeill Hunt; and his sister, Barbara Domenico. He is survived by his niece, Cass McMain; nephew-in-law, Paul Holley; and a wide circle of great friends and colleagues.

A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 12:00 p.m., at FRENCH - University. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Association of Public Interest Law at the UNM Law School or NM Voices for Children.