Neal Russell Davidson

Age 91

Of Falls Church, Va

Passed away Monday May 18, 2026

Neal Russell Davidson, born November 25, 1934, in Milwaukee Wisconsin, to Russell Norman and Eleanor Clara (Geller) Davidson, lived a life centered on faith, service, and deep love for his family. Raised by his mother and grandmother, he was shown that perseverance and faith can lead to greater success in life.

Neal was a lifelong student of faith and learning. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Iowa State University in 1956, Master of Divinity from Central Luthern Theological Seminary in Fremont Nebraska 1963, Master of Theology Princeton University 1974, Master of Education, Columbia University 1980, and Doctor of Education, Columbia University 1983.

He served honorably in the United States Air Force and then in the Army as a Luthern Chaplain from 1970 - 1987, serving proudly in Vietnam offering spiritual care and guidance through the words of God. He was decorated with service awards and medals including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, The Meritorious Service Metal, and The Army Commendation Medal and rose to the rank of Lt Colonel. Continuing his faith after retiring from Military service he continued devoting himself to a full-time Lutheran pastor.

As a devoted Lutheran pastor, Neal dedicated his life to serving God and guiding others with wisdom, compassion, and grace. His ministry was rooted in kindness, understanding, and unwavering faith. Through words, prayers, and actions, he brought comfort and hope to many throughout the years.

During his time in Des Moines, Iowa, he met and married Dolores Marie (Meury) Davidson, and together they built a loving family raising their two sons, Craig and Roger and soon after moved to Portland Texas where he started his first church, St Stephens Luthern Church. Together the family travelled extensively throughout the US and Europe guided by the church and military service. Neal was a devoted father who provided guidance, strength, and unconditional love to his children throughout their lives.

Later in life, Neal found lasting love and companionship with his beloved wife Jean Collette (Okstel) Davidson, with whom he shared twenty-seven loving years which allowed him to become a devoted stepfather to Jean Van Pelt-Melli, Robert Van Pelt, and William E. Van Pelt.

Above all else, Neal’s greatest Joy was his family and Friends. He was a deeply loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished every moment with them. To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Opa,” a name he wore with pride, reflecting his deep relationship with his German heritage. He found happiness in the generations that followed him, offering encouragement, wisdom, and love that will never be forgotten.

Neal was survived by four children, nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

He also enjoyed watching baseball, especially the Washington Nationals, and was a loyal Green Bay Packers fan, sharing those passions with his family and friends.

Neal will be remembered as a man of deep faith, extraordinary accomplishment, quiet strength, and enduring kindness. His life was one of faithful service to his country, his church, his community, and most importantly, his family.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

The family will be receiving friends at MURPHY FUNERAL HOME of Arlington, 4510 Wilson Blvd., on Wednesday, June 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 3313 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201, on Saturday, July 11, at 1:00 p.m. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date, with service times to be announced.