Samuel McNeal passed bravely as he embraced love on January 19, 2024, at the age of 53, as a California resident of 32 years. He was born on May 20th, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois to Allen Jackson and Laverne Terry McNeal. He joined the Navy in 1988 starting his adventures out to sea traveling to many places like Hawaii, Africa, Philippines, and Japan but none rivaled his love for beautiful San Diego. Sam served for 8 years in the Navy and received many honorable merits and medals. He arrived in SD in 1992 and immediately felt like this was home. He started his law enforcement career with the Los Angeles Police Department. He established his passion for public service in the SD Sheriff’s department as a correctional deputy, serving and retiring after 25 years. During this time, he received his criminal justice degree.
Sam and Sharon met on New Year’s Day 1998 while working their shifts at the San Diego County jail. Instantly connecting to each other, their love grew and blossomed with their two children Jazmen Campbell and Tracy Brown. Sam and Sharon married Feb 14, 2003, and continued to grow their family with their son Samuel Jr and daughter Samara. They recommitted their love on July 1, 2008, and experienced a loving and faith-based union that showed respect and the power of prayer and dedication. The love in this relationship is felt by all that encountered them. Sam is adored and promoted to Papa by Olivia and Isabella Campbell.
He is survived by his mother Laverne McNeal, his father Allen Jackson, his wife Sharon and children Jazmen Campbell (Amando Campbell), Tracy Brown, Samuel Jr and Samara McNeal. His siblings; Darlene McNeal, Lorell McNeal, Tom McNeal (Mary McNeal), Gail McNeal, Anthony McNeal (Tionne McNeal), Jeanne Mangano, Tarra McIntosh, Princess Powe and Tyrell Schultz. Preceded in death by grandparents Enlow Terry, Essie B Terry, and Aunt Ann J Everrett.
Sam is a devoted husband and father. He loved the beach and going for hikes, football and he enjoyed art and music with his wife Sharon by his side. Spending time with family was the most important thing to him. He enjoyed giving any family or friends that visited the California tour. He will be remembered as strong, loving and excited by life. He will be deeply missed by everyone that loved and knew him.
