Jerry L Neal, 85, passed away June 13, 2025, in Calhoun, Georgia at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Sheridan, IN on May 25, 1940, to parents Frances A. (Hine) Neal and Curtis Wayne Neal.
Jerry graduated from Lebanon High School in 1958. After graduation, he attended Purdue University where he received his bachelor’s degree in engineering. He was an engineer for Cosco Furniture company in Columbus, IN for over 37 years. He was instrumental in setting up all aspects of manufacturing plants traveling to Mexico, China and various cities across the United States before his retirement in 1998. He married Darlene B. McFarland Neal in Ringgold, GA on November 28, 1998. Jerry was a member of the Elks Lodge in Lebanon, IN and served on the board of the Boone County Historical Society in Lebanon for a number of years.
Jerry enjoyed watching college teams and Indianapolis Colts football games. He also loved watching NASCAR, Indy and Stockcar racing on the weekends. He loved fishing with his co-workers in Florida, history, travel, and wildlife.
Survivors include his loving wife, Darlene B. McFarland Neal; daughters, Lisa Neal of Ninevah, IN and Jessica Lacey (Fred Lawson) of Seymore, TN; stepdaughters, Vicky (Darryl) Wade of Cartersville GA, Michelle (Duane) Smith of Euharlee, GA, and Farrah (Jason) Barton Resaca, GA; brother-in-law, Reynolds (Joan) Bruce of Cartersville, GA; grandchildren, Josh Garris of Columbus, IN, Chelsie Lacey (Michael Sisler) of Knoxville, TN, Brianna Clift, Blake Smith, Jarrad Smith of Cartersville, GA, and Bayly Barton of Resaca, GA; great grandchildren, Landon Garris, LeAnnah Sisler, Aylee Ray, and Blair Smith; his lifelong friend, Delbert Davis; his wife Marilyn; and a number of cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia Morken Purcell of Connersville, IN; and his former wife and the mother of his children, Freda Ward.
Thanks goes to Heyman Hospice staff of Rome, Georgia that include Stacey, Amy, Kenisha, Lisa, and George. Special caregivers Tina Collins of Resaca, GA and Robin Tinch of Calhoun, GA.
Funeral Services are to be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Myers Mortuary, 1502 North Lebanon Street, in Lebanon, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services. Interment will follow services at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lebanon, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Boone County Historical Society or local animal shelter.