Neal Scott McCarty

Neal was born in Berwyn, Illinois and grew up in Omaha, Nebraska. After graduation, he joined the Army and became a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne. While stationed at Fort Bragg, he met Diane, his wife of 61 years. After his discharge, he went back to Omaha to work as a draftsman, then later as a salesman for Wescon Products in Wichita, Kansas. In 1985, he was transferred to Columbia, South Carolina and retired after 44 years with Wescon.

Neal loved relaxing at home with his wife and cats, sitting in “his chair” doing sudoku and crossword puzzles. When it was time to have some fun, A Perfect Manhattan and a good cigar was Neal’s favorite recipe. He was the life of the party, making a friend everywhere he went. Neal and Diane were dedicated attendees of University of South Carolina football games, both at home and away, creating many wonderful memories with cherished friends and family. His love for planes never ended after the Army - he also enjoyed flying his Comanche with his son, attending air shows, and spoiling the Young Eagles at Owens Field with donuts.

Neal is survived by his wife, Diane; his son, Paul; his daughter, Angie; and two granddaughters, Paige and Bailey, who will all try to carry on his entertaining wit. A celebration of his life will be held in The Zone at Williams Brice Stadium in June – time and date TBD, further details to come.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humane Society, to support Neal’s love for animals.