Leigh McNeal, 90, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, died November 4, 2021 at his farm in rural Custer County.
(Richard) Leigh McNeal was born June 5, 1931 in Gothenburg, NE to Clarence and Daphne Tirill McNeal. He passes away on November 4, 2021 at the age of 90 on his beloved Custer County ranch, while he was checking water.
He attended District north two country school, where his children and his father also attended. He graduated from Gothenburg High School in 1948. In February of 1951, he joined the Navy. He served in the Miramar security office and later on the aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Boxer. On June 8, 1952, he married Marilyn Stinehagen. To this union, two children were born. Leigh Ann and Kirk were the joys of his life.
He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and Husker fan. He also loved a good game of pinochle. He was active and held leadership rolls in the Church of God and in later years, the Church of Christ.
Leigh was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Donna Stevens and her husband Bob, brother, Mearl McNeal and his wife Merle Ruth, brother-in-laws, Delmar Matz, Jim Stinehagen, and Herman Hinkle, sister-in-law Perk English and her husband Billy Bob English and nephew Kim Stevens.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Marilyn. His daughter, Leigh Ann (Kent) Wilcher, son, Kirk (Lexi) McNeal, three granddaughters, Laura-Leigh (Randy) Norris, Lexie Wilcher, and Lauren McNeal, three great-grandchildren, Miles, Maxwell, and Mila Norris. He is also survived by one sister, Iris Matz, two sister-in-laws, Shirley Hinkle, and Chrystl Stinehagan, numerous nieces and nephews, friends, and neighbors. All of his family was extremely special to him and a blessing to his life.
Visitation will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Gothenburg; Friday, November 12, 2021, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm.
Memorial services will be held at the First United Methodist Church, Gothenburg, Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 3:00 pm.
Private interment will take place in the Grandview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the family for Children of Promise, a program for third world children that supplies them with nutrition, education, health care, and discipleship.