Howard McNeal

Mr. Howard McNeal, age 84, of Marion, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at The McDowell Hospital. A native of Yancey County, Howard was born on Sept. 3, 1923 to the late Frank Howard McNeal and Nora Hyder McNeal. He was a veteran of the U. S. Air Force having served during World War II. He was employed with Marion Auto Parts for over 40 years and sang with The Young Set choral group for many years. His service to his community was recognized in numerous ways including serving as Grand Marshall in the Marion Christmas parade and together with his wife, Jewell, as the first Senior Citizens of the Year selected by the McDowell County Chamber of Commerce. In the early 1980s, radio station WBRM honored him by devoting a day as Howard McNeal Day in recognition of his outstanding Christian community service in McDowell County. He volunteered for many things including The McDowell Hospital and the Christian Clothing Center. His most remembered service, however, will be in the way he served his Lord through his work and devotion to Garden Creek Baptist Church where he was a member for over 65 years. Howard served as a deacon and Sunday School director and sang tenor in the church choir. He also had 40 years perfect attendance in Sunday School. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 64 years, Jewell Parker McNeal; a daughter, Jewell E. "Susie" McKinney and her husband, Mike, of Conyers, Ga.; a granddaughter, Michelle McKinney Youmans of Atlanta, Ga.; and two brothers, Bruce McNeal of Asheville and Dr. Robert E. McNeal of Fairfax, Va. A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Garden Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Stephen Willie and Dr. Steve Parker officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in McDowell Memorial Park with military graveside rites provided by the U. S. Air Force. Flowers are acceptable and appreciated. Those desiring to make a memorial contribution are encouraged to consider the McDowell Mission Ministries at PO Box 297, Marion, NC 28752. Westmoreland Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements. An online register is available under OBITUARIES at www.westmorelandfuneralhome.com.