On a beautiful December day, Sunday, December 27, 2015, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, James E. Neal, received his angel wings and the crown that he earned, after many years of suffering with congestive heart failure. There to greet him at the golden gates were his parents, Wallace Ridley Neal and Mattie Lucille Hall as well as his stepfather, Buren Hall; In-laws, Walter and Mazie Jackson; Special brother-in-law, Johnny Jackson; brothers, Jack, Larry, Riley ,and a twin brother that passed at birth. Left to cherish his many wonderful years of love and laughter is his beloved wife of 54 years, Doris J. Neal; daughters, Debbie Catron and three sons, Karen and husband, David Crouch, and Kymberly and husband, Curtis Cole; special grandson, Zachary James Neal; granddaughters, Keisha Robertson and Marista Crouch; great-grandchildren, Kyle, Karis, and Addamarie; sister, Wanda and husband, Norman Abshire; brother, Wayne and wife, Gina Neal; and the wonderful people whom he considered family, Todd and wife, Deisy Goodrich along with Todd’s three children, as well as, Michael Luckado, David Saunders, Brent Richardson, and Scott Durham.
Our dad was the man, the myth, and the legend. He spent 42 years chasing that white line in a semi, so that Mom could stay at home with the kids. He instilled in us the true values in life by always telling the truth, don’t steal, and treat everyone like you would want to be treated. Most importantly, have pride and respect, no matter what or else. Always work and do the very best job that you can and give them, 110% or don’t do it.
A period of visitation will be held 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem. A funeral service will be at 1 p.m on Thursday, December 31, 2015 at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home. An interment will at Sherwood Memorial Park following the service. Online condolences may be made at www.johnmoakey.com. The Neal family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory, Salem, 540-389-5441.