James Warrener Neal

James began his beautiful journey on July 21, 1945, in Blackstone, Virginia, to the late Elizabeth and Horace Crawley. The Lord told him "Well done," in the early hours of the morning on April 10, 2025, but his legacy will echo through generations to come. He received his education at Luther H. Foster High School, proudly graduating with the Class of 1962. Throughout his life, James worked in a variety of roles, but the memories of him will forever grace the halls of Nottoway & Lunenburg Correctional Centers, where he served honorably as a Sergeant. His warmth and presence also left an unforgettable mark at the Walmart of Blackstone in the garden center. James was a dedicated Tyler of PHA Evergreen Benjamin Lodge #131 in Crewe, Virginia, faithfully serving his Masonic brothers for many years. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, his son James Warrener Neal Jr. (Zandra). He leaves to cherish his precious memory: His loving and devoted wife of 40 years, Kathleen; His adoring children: Vincente (Spring), Shaun (Takenya), Jametra, April, Christopher (Shauna), Jamel (Loren), and Jamesha; His beloved grandchildren: Temar (Faith), Quatum (Takenya), Sheonna, Djameria, Daniel, Lemaria, Jazmira, Christopher Jr., Amia, Amya, Shaun Jr., King Shaun, Darrell Jr., Samyia, Messiah, and Jamel Jr.; Six precious great-grandchildren; His devoted sister Shirley; His newly embraced siblings: Margaret Reece, Otho "Robbie" Babb Jr., Gwendolyn Babb, and Tanya Beam; His cherished nieces and nephews: Gary (Veronica), Kelly (Domonique), Dwayne (Suzanne), Carl (Malaika), Tesha, and Rhonda; His lifelong friends: Nathaniel Miller, Floyd Clay, Marilyn Wilson and his devoted brother-in-law Alonzo "Junie" Tucker; and His new found friend Charley Rhea. James was the heartbeat of his community, known lovingly to many as "Coach". In the 1970's, he helped found the Nottoway youth football association-a place where boys found discipline, structure, and father figures. As time passed and his founding brothers, Joseph Trent & Ronnie Johnson, transitioned on, he proudly took the reins as President, ensuring the vision stayed alive. Football wasn't just a sport to Coach-it was a calling. It was where he turned boys into men and poured wisdom into their lives with every practice, every huddle, and every moment of love. He was also known as "catfish" to friends and family for his avid love of fishing. he spent his free time between saltwater fishing with his children, lifetime friends, and other family members-gardening, and playing spades, watching the 49ers, and enjoying a good game of bid whist. His hands were always busy doing for others; his heart was open to all. He was more than a name. He was a force, A builder of character. A cornerstone of a community. A man who gave endlessly and loved fiercely. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in generosity, leadership, and an unshakable sense of purpose