Neil was born in 1908, the eldest child of Donald MacKillop and Christina MacDonald of Quay. Born in 1908, he was a pupil at Berneray School from 1914 to 1923, though did spend some time at Boreray School, no doubt when visiting his maternal grandparents. In 1924 he moved with his parents to 8 Cheesebay. He later married Isabella MacLennan from 9 Howbeg.