Edwin Neill ll, the CEO of Neill Corporation, passed away February 28. Known as a pioneer and mentor in the beauty industry, his company was the largest independent distributor of Aveda products in the world. He is survived by his wife, Debra; seven children and five grandchildren.

The Neill Corporation was named Distributor of the Year in 1999 by MODERN SALON, SALON TODAY’S sister publication. Bob Bellew, vice president and publishing director of the magazines said, “Edwin’s passion and total commitment to business education, technology and service, combined with his corporate focus on family values and personal growth, made him an innovative leader in our industry. The professional salon industry will greatly miss Edwin Neill.”

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