Eugene was born September 29th, 1948 in Durham, NC to the late Rev. William R McNeal Sr and Frances L McNeal. He was the third of their 4 children.

He graduated from Merrick Moore High School in 1967. After high school, he attended Durham Tech Community College and was then drafted into the Army. He served in the Army for 3 years, the Army Reserve for 3 years, and then received an Honorable Discharge. He then attended NCCU where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. He later attended Union Christian Bible Institute and Word of Faith Bible College.

In 1969, Eugene met the love of his life on the city bus. Cynthia Johnson, who he lovingly called “Babydoll” was quite smitten. They married in 1971 and had 2 children Robin and Germany.

Eugene worked for the United States Postal Service for 32 years and retired in 2003.

Eugene grew up as a member of Cameron Grove Baptist Church. At Cameron Grove, he served as a Teacher, Superintendent of Sunday School, member of the Male Chorus, Usher Board, and Deacon Board, and Chairman of the Deacon Board. He became an Associate Minister and was then ordained a Minister of the Gospel and was known for winning souls for the Lord.

In 1990 he started his own church, Word of Faith. As the Pastor for 36 years, he was known as “The Fruit Man” because he planted seeds everywhere he went. He touched many lives over the years and was well loved in his community.

Eugene enjoyed trips to the beach and spending time with his family. Most of all he loved reading and studying the Bible and Bible related books and materials. He also loved to watch Westerns during his spare time.

Eugene will truly be missed. His memory will be carried on by his wife, Cynthia, daughters Robin (Franklyn) and Germany, grandchildren Bryan, Michelle, and Patrick, great grandchildren Carter, Abigail, Rajan, and Isabella. Siblings Pauline Kimber (Bill), William R McNeal Jr. (Faye), and the late Cora B Lyles (Nate). In Laws the entire Johnson Family and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, god children and extended family. Also, the Word of Faith Christian Community Church family.

Funeral Service:

Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Visitation:11:00 am
Funeral:12:00 (noon)

Location:Holloway Memorial Funeral Home Inc | 2502 NC Hwy 55 | Durham, NC 27713

Interment: Glennview Memorial Park

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