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Mr. James H. Neal, age 68, of James was more than just a man, he was a legacy of love and kindness. To all who came in contact with him throughout his life. Raised in a Christian family who loved to share Gods word of eternal life. Somerset, Kentucky, passed from this life on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at Baptist Health in Lexington, Kentucky. James was more than just a man, he was a legacy of love and kindness. To all who came in contact with him throughout his life. Raised in a Christian family who loved to share Gods word of eternal life.
James was born on April 11, 1958 to the late William Jess Neal and Hazel King Neal in New Castle, Indiana.
He enjoyed building, fishing in Canada, playing guitar, picking and singing with his friends. He was a son first, then husband, then grandfather.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia Lynn Neal, brothers: Jesse Junior Neal, Joe Neal, Donald Neal, infant- Phillip Ray Neal, sisters: Ona Stecher and Julia Baker; along with special best friend: Jerry Way Floyd (Robin).
He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of 50 years, Ruth Neal, daughter Melissa Meadows (Jeff) of Somerset; sister Anna Haler (Ronald) of Morgantown, IN; grandchildren: Savannah Perdue (Logan Tomlinson), Jimmy Ray Purdue III (Gabbie), Jordan Meadows, and Ethan Meadows.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 from 11am-1pm in the Chapel of the Southern Oaks Funeral Home with a funeral service to begin at 1pm. Burial will follow in Grave Hill Cemetery.
Southern Oaks Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.