John was born in Albany, Kentucky, to the late John and Howard Marie Neal. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Rodney Neal, and his brother, Gary Neal.
A proud veteran, John served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. Following his military service, he continued his education and graduated from Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga in 1977.
John was a man of deep faith who devoted the majority of his life to serving the Lord as an evangelist preacher. His passion was sharing the Word of Christ and reaching people wherever God led him. His ministry carried him across the United States, from coast to coast and from pole to pole, as well as around the world. He preached in Germany, Japan, Guam, and many other countries, touching countless lives through his faith, testimony, and dedication to the Gospel.
John also had a love for the outdoors and was an avid golfer. He treasured the time he spent on the golf course and enjoyed the simple pleasures of being outside. Earlier in his career, he owned and operated a tire company in Hoopeston, Illinois.
John will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Nancy Neal; his daughter, Debra (Randy) Bramblett; his six grandchildren, Bobby Alan Neal, Heather Kearns, Gary (Tracy) Neal, Eric Bramblett, Shawn Bramblett, and Kevin (Ashleigh) Bramblett; ten great-grandchildren; six siblings, Ruth Beaty, Billy Neal, George (Joan) Neal, Norman (Connie) Neal, Donny (Marylan) Neal, and Patsy Compton; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and all those whose lives he touched through his ministry.
John leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, service, and devotion to God. His life was dedicated to sharing the hope of Christ with others, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many people he reached throughout his years of ministry.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Victory Baptist Church, 1013 Lafayette Road, Rossville, GA 30741, with Dr. Ernest Groce and Rev. Sammy Popwell officiating. Burial will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery, where military rites will be conducted.
The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Missions at Victory Baptist Church, 1013 Lafayette Road, Rossville, GA 30741.
Please share your thoughts and memories of John online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
