Jerome T. Neal

Jerome Thomas Neal was born June 4, 1941 to the late Thomas Woods and Pauline Perisee in Chicago, Illinois; the oldest of 8 children. He studied mechanical drawing at DuSable High School and graduated in 1959. Jerome entered the U.S. Air Force in 1963 during Vietnam as an airplane mechanic. After serving, he worked for the Chicago steel mill, the Chicago Stock Exchange, the United States Post Office, RR Donnelley, and then the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He married Veronica Higginbotham on June 16, 1969. Jerome developed a strong interest in art at a very young age. He has participated in and hosted a plethora of art shows, festivals, and exhibitions in Chicago and Indianapolis. His thematic pieces can be encountered in places like the DuSable Museum in Chicago, the governor's mansion, universities, and libraries in Indianapolis, restaurants in Europe, and even your own home. He was a unique and creative individual with notable creations, yet enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Consequently, he loved trains, photography, travelling, and listening to old LP’s for relaxation. Jerome, 78, made his glorious transition on Friday, February 16, 2020 at his home in Indianapolis, IN. He is survived by his wife, Veronica; children, Toya, Keena, Shayla, and Sanjiv (Chong) Neal; grandchildren, Jont’e, Jha’ Vhaun, Jha’Kyia, Jonesia Clark, Sorelle and Jenna Neal, Serine and Joyelle Neal, Mylah and Maxwell Neal, and Libah Douglas; 7 great-grandchildren; 6 siblings, Nicola, Georgette, George, Donnie, Weyman, and Cameron; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Jerome was preceded in death by his eldest children, Tejar and Shakira, and his sister, Hazel. Jerome will be dearly missed. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Williams & Bluitt Funeral Home Chapel 5252 E. 38th St., Family hour beginning at 12pm service at 1:00 PM.