Reverend Roger Dale Neal, 66, Greenfield, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 20, at Community Hospital North. He was born on January 26, 1950, in New Castle, as the son of Dewey F. and Ella L. (Huckaby) Neal.
Roger married Annetta C (Denney) on January 17, 1969, and they had one child: Robyn.
Reverend Neal accomplished many things and had many interests in his life. His first love was to work for God in any way possible. As he said many times, “I want to work in God’s vineyard as long as I can.” He was saved at the age of 14 and continued his walk with God until the end of his life. Roger had a heart for and loved the people of Haiti. He made several trips there to minister and took supplies and clothing. His special friend there was Reverend Dieuseul. Roger also was pastor of Cambridge Apostolic Church in Cambridge City, for over 10 years, until failing health prevented his continuing. He was known for his integrity, work ethic, consistency, and his desire to learn new things. One of his many sayings was, “I want to be learning something new until I die.” Even after his cancer diagnosis, he took up beekeeping!
He enjoyed beekeeping, archery, horsemanship, hunting, fishing, cooking, and playing the guitar. He also enjoyed flying small aircraft, and was a licensed private and commercial pilot. He loved to garden and once raised over 900 lbs. of watermelon in one season! He enjoyed carpentry and was a self employed builder for many years.
Reverend Neal is survived by his wife, Annetta; daughter, Robyn A. (William E. Jr.) Smith of Fortville; siblings, James (Lillian) Neal of Missouri, Rosemary Disbro of New Castle, and Victor (Tammy) Neal of Hagerstown; two grandchildren, Catherine A. Smith and William E. Smith III; and many extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Ella Neal; and infant sister, Robin Neal.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, September 23, at Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory, 1484 W US Hwy. 40, Greenfield, IN 46140. A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 24, also at the mortuary. Reverend Larry Neal will be officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Summit Cemetery in Mt. Summit.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent directly to Haiti Missions: c/o Reverend Paul Perkins, 78 Francie Blvd., Monticello, KY 42633, or envelopes will be available at the mortuary.
Friends may share a memory or send a condolence at erleweinmortuary.com or email condolences to [email protected].
