Jerry Neel Sr.

Jerry Wayne Neel Sr. passed from his earthly home to his eternal home where he is with his Father God and Jesus Christ in the place they had prepared for him on December 24, 2020. Jerry was born at home to Harold and Ethel Murrell Neel on September 5, 1933 in Arkadelphia, AR. He was a miracle baby after weighing only 3 pounds when he was born. God’s hands were on him from the beginning of life.

He was an active fellow and lived life to its fullest. He loved the Lord and his family, and he always worked hard, long hours to provide for them.

He served in the Army during the Korean conflict. He attended Quachita Baptist College where he met his wife, Sandra Irwin, who was attending Henderson State Teacher’s College. They were married March 9, 1957.

As a young man, he became an avid hunter, living in the rural community of Richwoods, AR. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited and loved duck hunting. He was an excellent snow skier and golfer. He spent many hours with his family hunting, fishing, hiking, and attending their sporting events.

He operated the food service department for the public for Baptist Hospital in Little Rock, AR, for 4 years. He then moved to Fort Smith, AR, to open and operate the food service division for Borg Warner. Later, Whirlpool Corporation bought out Borg Warner and he operated their food service division for 33 years. He also founded and operated Jerry Neel’s B-B-Q until he retired.

Jerry was a member of First Baptist Church for 59 years. He was deacon and an active member of the mission program, traveling to Russia, Africa, Latvia, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, a sister, Jo Ella Cain, a brother, James Gaylon Neel, and his grandson, Jonathan Neel.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Sandra, and their five children: Jerry Wayne Neel, Jr. and wife Marisu; Dennis Keith Neel and late wife Leslie; James Scott Neel and wife Caroline; Karen Suzette Gipson and husband Greg; and Rodney Gaylon Neel and Melissa. He is also survived by sister, Norma Asbridge, of Fort Smith.

Jerry will be forever remembered by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Paul Neel and wife Lindsey; Natalie Neel; Katelyn Gallant; Kristan Lewellen; Alex Neel; Nick Lewellen and wife Ashley; Logan Neel; Abbey Neel and Hunter Whorton; Annabelle Neel; and Alexyss Gipson. Harper Neel, Hallie Lewellen, Tyler Lewellen, and Dakota. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm at the National Cemetery in Fort Smith, AR, on December 30, 2020 under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. His 4 sons will serve as honorary pallbearers. Pastors Dale Thompson and Mike Franklin will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church Missions or Gideons International.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com