Neal was born in Fort Collins, Colorado, on December 24, 1970, to Richard “Dick” and Kathleen “Penny” Stevens. He grew up in Annandale, Virginia, with his parents, sister, and beloved dog, Bummer. He attended W. T. Woodson High School, where his skills as a midfielder on the lacrosse team and his sense of humor earned him lifelong friends.
Neal graduated from Colgate University in 1993 with a BA in Asian Studies, where he lettered three years in varsity lacrosse and was a valued member of the Newman Group and Theta Chi fraternity. His prodigious intellect impressed his professors and peers, but Neal’s gentle spirit and kindness defined his character. Neal always had a twinkle in his eye, a witty comment, and kind words for friends and strangers alike.
Neal earned law degrees from the University of Wisconsin (JD, cum laude, 1997) and New York University (LLM, 2000). After working as an attorney in the New York City offices of several large law firms, he found his true passion was finance. He formed Ancile Capital Management and began managing client accounts. He cherished the vibrancy of New York and could often be found exploring museums, local restaurants, or the film festival in his TriBeCa neighborhood.
Neal had an adventurous spirit and a thirst for knowledge. He traveled extensively, learned to scuba dive in caves and under ice, and enjoyed reading biographies and philosophy. As a lifelong athlete, he took a strong interest in fitness and health. From his early days on the lacrosse field to his later exploration of tennis, running, journaling, and meditation, Neal was always active, learning new skills, and making new friends. His focus on his physical and mental well-being was an inspiration to those around him.
Neal’s love of learning, warmth, intelligence, and respect were his hallmarks and endeared him to friends and family.
Neal is survived by his parents, Richard “Dick” and Kathleen “Penny” Stevens, his sister, Hilary Stevens and her husband, Jeremy Wells, his nieces, Rosalia and Genevieve Wells, and his life partner, Stacey Harris.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to:
Transitions HospiceCare
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
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