James Ellis McNeal

James Ellis McNeal, age 93, passed away on July 22, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, leaving behind a life defined by faith, family, hard work, and service. Born on December 28, 1932, he lived a long and meaningful life, earning the respect and love of all who knew him.

Mr. McNeal proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War, where he worked as a cook while faithfully serving his country. Following his military service, he began a career with GTE Telephone Company, where he worked for more than 30 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and quiet determination throughout his life.

A man of faith, James was a member of New Beginning Church in Ashford. He was also a Mason, reflecting his commitment to service, fellowship, and community. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who valued honesty, kindness, and spending time with those he loved.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy McNeal; parents, Perry Clyde and Ella Merle McNeal; his sisters, Rosa Odom and Margaret Skipper (Danford); and brother-in-law, Nathan Davis.

He is survived by his children, Cynthia Holloway (Jerry), Tony McNeal (Robin), Donna Robertson (Roger), and Lisa Wilson (Anthony). He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Jason Holloway (Julie), Andrew Elmore (Jamie), Leighann Sasser (Lee), Anthony McNeal (Laci), Michael McNeal, Adam Phillips, Zachary Phillips, Amanda Radney (Junior), Ashlyn Radney (Kaden), Danielle Loukinas (Nick), and David Ellis Wilson. He is also survived by 21 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, his brother, Gerome McNeal (Cathy), his sister, Mildred Davis, and several nieces and nephews.

Family was at the center of James' life, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with his children, grandchildren, and extended family. He enjoyed taking drives down country dirt roads, appreciating the scenery along the way. He also looked forward to Friday fish dinners at CB's in Slocomb and Broadway Café in Ashford and enjoyed relaxing at home while watching Walker, Texas Ranger and Animal Planet.

James Ellis McNeal will be remembered as a hardworking, faithful, and caring man whose quiet strength and steady example left a lasting impression on his family and friends. His life was one of service, devotion, and love, and his memory will continue to be cherished by all who knew him.

A celebration of Mr. McNeal’s life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026 at 11:00 am at New Beginning Church in Ashford, AL with Pastor Logan Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service at the church. He will be laid to rest in Cowarts Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to his special caregivers, Tony and JoAnne Sanders and Cheryl Pelham, for the compassionate care, kindness, and friendship they shared with James. Their love and dedication brought great comfort to him and his family, and they will always be deeply appreciated.