Neil was an international freestyler with the Brighton Shiverers club before turning to water polo, his speed and mobility proving great assets to the Poly team as they won the ASA KO competition in 1963, followed by an ASA KO/National League double in 1970.
Following a fall, Neil had been a quadriplegic in recent years, although he still managed to swim every week in the Hove pool.
Former Poly captain and GB goalkeeper Neil May says: "Despite his many problems, Neil's cheerfulness and zest for life have been truly inspirational. He will be sorely missed by his many friends."