Johnny C. Neal, 92
December 4, 1933 – April 26, 2026
Johnny C. Neal, age 92, of New Albany, Mississippi, passed away on April 26, 2026. He was born on December 4, 1933, in Houlka, Mississippi, and was raised in Houston, Mississippi. He was the son of the late Reverend Baron Neal and Modera Weaver Neal.
Johnny was married to Mary Lois Harrell Neal for 68 years. He was a devoted member of Neely Baptist Church, where he faithfully served in many roles, including Sunday School teacher, council member, assistant training Union teacher, and chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee.
Johnny proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1955. During his service, he was a member of the Tri-Service Honor Guard to the Commander in Chief, United Nations and Far East Command in Tokyo, Japan. He also served as a Military Police Officer in Japan and was stationed aboard the destroyer USS De Haven (DD-727). He was honorably discharged in Long Beach, California, with the rank of Seaman First Class.
Following his military service, Johnny built a long and successful career in banking and finance, working for 48 years before retiring at the age of 79. He was also an active member of the New Albany Lions Club, where he served as President, Secretary, and Treasurer.
Johnny is survived by his children: one son, Johnny C. (Bubba) Neal and his wife Kim of New Albany; three daughters, Kay Watson of Ecru, Julia Davis of Ecru, and Brenda Norman and her husband Bob of Oxford. He is also survived by one brother, Bobby Neal and his wife Vivian of Houston; nine grandchildren, Heath Watson, Teia Watson, Christa Fuller, Jeremy Cannon, Dustin Neal, Matt Neal, Chase Neal, Neal Norman, and Rob Norman; 24 great grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Billy Neal, George Neal, J.R. Neal, and Jerry Neal; two sisters, Emma Wiggs and Norma Hurst; and one great-grandchild, Eli Frazier.
Johnny will be remembered for his faithful service to his church, his country, and his community, as well as his deep love for his family.
Serving as Pallbearers will be his grandsons.
Serving as Honorary Pallbearers will be Tim Broom, Greg Lawrence, Charlie Orman, Johnny Pilcher, Bobby Thompson and his Sunday School class.
Visitation will be held April 30 from 11:00 -1:00 p.m. at United Funeral Services in New Albany, followed by the funeral at 1:00 p.m. With Brother Jason Pilcher and Brother Jeremiah McMillen officiating. There will be a private family graveside service following. United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
~
