Roy Sylvester Neal, Sr. was born on November 9, 1932, in Beckley, West Virginia to George and Lorene Neal. At a young age, he moved to Greensboro, North Carolina and settled in Nealtown with his family. Around Age 18, he met and married the love of his life, Naomi Neal. Together they had 7 children whom he loved and cherished with all of his heart. Ves (as he was known to his friends and family) passed away peacefully at home on June 1st, 2022.
Ves spent his young adult years learning to be a skilled tradesman. He was skilled at many things. Between him, his cousin and best friend Tony and brother Robert Lewis— there was absolutely nothing that could not be accomplished. He was a painter, a baker, a carpenter, and a handyman.
For over 25 years, he worked at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in the Health Center providing nursing care for students. He also painted for the Greensboro Housing Authority.
He was an avid traveler. He passed on his love of seeing the world to his children and grandchildren by taking them all over the country in his RV while he was able. Many of those trips were Fishing trips. Whenever he had time, he found time to Fish. He was an accomplished fisherman and loved being on the water. It didn’t matter if it was freshwater or deep sea. If there were fish, he wanted to catch them— and on Fridays, with the whole family surrounding– deep fry them for everyone to enjoy.
Ves showed his love not only through service with his hands, but with service with his time. He was a proud lifelong member of Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church. He served as Steward Pro Tem, Member of the Male Chorus, and a Sunday School teacher.
While his presence will always be missed, left to celebrate his legacy and many happy memories will be his wife Naomi. On June 13th, the two would have celebrated 70 years of matrimony. He was also a loving father to Bilqis Abdul-Rashid, Roy Neal Jr. (Brenda), Teresa Newman (George), William Neal (Cheryl), Chelita Neal, Carol Hart (Sammy), and Terry Neal. He cherished the time spent with each of his grandchildren– Katina (Jeffery), Rashidah, Crystal (Edward), Hussain, Chasity (Trevor), Brian, Whitney, Farwah, Sonja, Raushana, Heather, Tara, and Sha-Reh. The best laughs will forever remain with the great grandchildren–Jalil, Cierra, Cayden, Addison, Jennifer, Emerie, Gabriella, Brooke, Milan, Lyric, Trevor, Yazmin, Kyrie, Ari, Zaire, Julius, Saliyah, Ahnia, Jaya and Judan.
Not only was a devoted husband, father and grandfather extraordinaire– he was also a caring brother. Waiting to hug their brother in heaven are Roberta Neal Sunkett, George Neal (Carol), Nellie Javery (Thomas), and Mary Allen. His other sisters and brothers- Robert L. Neal (Lottie), Samuel L. Neal, Daniel Neal (Quinne), Naomi Waddell, and Martha Jefferies will continue to cherish the moments spent with their brother.
While the family is large, even still there are other nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends that will miss his presence (and delicious baked goods).
Roy Sylvester Neal, Sr. lived a full and happy life. He was often a man of a few words (unless he was praying over Sunday dinner), but lived a life that will continue to speak of the utterings of his heart. He will truly and undoubtedly be missed, but the echoes of his footsteps will continue for generations to come. Funeral will be held, Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at 11am at Perry J. Brown Funeral Home Chapel.10:30 Visitation. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion AME Church Cemetery. Professional service entrusted to Perry J. Brown Funeral Home.
Denise Thompson sent The Peace Lily for Roy Neal - June 06, 2022
To Crystal & Family On behalf of our Innovation Academy Family, May our God who holds the very universe in his hands, hold you close this day and in the days to come.-Innovation Academy @ South Campus
To the Family of Roy Neal, Senior
As we read the beautifully written obituary, we could not help but reflect on what a rich and beautifully fulfilled life Brother Neal had, and his life centered around his Family. "Family is Everything". With the Legacy he left, Family know that you are going to miss him, it is only natural. He will live on Forever in your hearts and minds. We as well as the entire Mount Zion Community are sending love your way. We are sure that God is saying "Well Done, Thy Good and Faithful Servant".
Barbara & Roger Pratt
Condolences to the Neil family my prayers are with you Charles Vick
To Jalil and the Neal Family. Our condolences and prayers during this sad and difficult time. The Holloway Family
Neal family...may your daddy rest peacefully. It was a great pleasure growing up with your family, especially with Roy and Teresa in the Mt. Zion community. May God comfort you and bring you peace. Eric Wooten and Renee Wooten Kersey Bell
Our Sincere Condolences to the entire Neal Family to include our dear friends Katina, Jeffrey, Cierra and Jalil. Praying for peace during this difficult time. Lynn, Jalen, Grandma Liz and Sam.
My sincere condolences and prayers are with the Neal Family during this time of bereavement in the loss of Bro. Roy Neal. he will truly be missed and was truly loved. May God continue to bless and keep you comforted today and for the days to come. With Love Bertha Brown
My deepest sympathy and prayers to Carol Neal and family Patricia Clark and family
Neal family, you are in our prayers. Be blessed. Heaven had a special spot for him. Love to all of you. The Englands.
Our Condolences to the Neal Family,y'all are truly in our thoughts and prayers for strength, comfort and peace in Jesus Mighty Name 🙏 Brenda Dorsett and Family
Terry and Family, I am deeply sorry for the loss of your father. Wishing all of you peace, comfort and courage. My heart really goes out to you at this difficult time. - Renee M Donnell
May the peace that passes all understanding comfort you and your family in your time of need. Omar and Lynn Jones
Praying for your family. May God provide comfort in this time.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.