Billy G. Neal

Billy Neal, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on March 27, 2025 at his home in Hernando, MS. Born on July 3, 1938, in the small community of Banner, MS. Billy lived a life marked by hard work, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Billy worked for WW Grainger, earning respect and admiration as he worked his way up the ladder, becoming a regional salesman and ultimately retiring after 38 years. He later worked for the Brainerd Compressor Co for many years, jokingly letting them know that he didn’t want to work on pretty days! His disciplined and organized nature made him a doer, not a talker. Those who knew him would often recall his positive demeanor; he was the same warm hearted and cheerful person every day, always ready to help in time of need.

Billy‘s love for the Lord began in 1965 when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His faith was deeply intertwined with his life‘s work as he served as a deacon and greeter at Colonial Hill Church since the 70s, and later at Hernando Baptist Church. He was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed riding horses, fishing, hunting, and working in his garden, where he enjoyed sharing the fruits of his labor with others. Even though he wore a suit all day, he would quickly change into a pair of Liberty overalls just as soon as he got home. He found great joy in cutting trees with his chainsaw, driving his tractor and working with his cattle. Throughout his life, he was known to outwork many younger men, demonstrating an unmatched work ethic even in his advanced years.

He took great pride in his family and cherished every moment with them. Billy is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Bennie (Watts) Neal; son Rodney Neal (Michelle); daughter Gina Zee (Piet); 7 grandchildren: Jennifer, Jessica, Madison, Luke, Zachary, Daniel, and Ansley; and 7 great grandchildren. He is survived by his sisters Vene Trantham, “Kat” Pryor (Tom), and Ginger Hatley; brother-in-law Gary Potts (Anne); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Billy was proceeded in death by his daughter Gayle Lemmon and her husband Danny, parents Nual and Dolly (Littleton) Neal, and brother Toy Neal.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation, taking place on April 1, 2025 beginning at 10:30 AM, with a funeral service beginning at 12:00 PM, all at Hernando Baptist Church, located at 11 East Center St. Afterwards, he will be laid to rest at Twin Oaks Memorial Gardens and funeral home in Southaven, MS.

Billy Neal will be remembered for his servant’s heart, his loyalty, and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the heart of those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, trees, or cards, the family requests that donations be made to either Samaritan's Purse at the link below.