Samuel A. Neal of Dover, Delaware, passed away at his home Sunday February 6, 2005.

He was 88.

Mr. Neal was born June 5, 1916 in Wilmington, Delaware, the son of the late Samuel and Elizabeth McNally Neal.

A retired U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant, Mr. Neal spent 40 years serving his country-20 years in uniform and 20 years in Civil Service.

He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren and had a real affection for his many pets.

An avid golfer, he was a member of the Dover Air Force Base MISGA and could be found on the golf course year round, weather permitting.

He was a parishioner of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Dover and a charter member of the Dover Council of the Knights of Columbus.

Additionally, he was a Life Member of Walter L. Fox Post #2 in Dover and a 17 year member of the Dover Elks Lodge.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Neal was preceded in death by his wife, Mary McIntee Neal; 2 brothers, James and Edward Neal and his beloved grandson, Neal A. Faries.

He is survived by his six children and their spouses, Francis and Dr. Elaine Neal of Lyme, New Hampshire, Michael Neal and M. Jane Brady of Lewes, Delaware, Timothy and Kathy Neal of Wilmington, Delaware, Margaret "Peggy" Neal of Dover, Patricia and Norman Carney of Dover and Maureen "Ree" and Wells Faries of Smyrna, Delaware; two sisters, Margaret Forester of Wilmington, and Mary Reinhart of West Lake , Ohio; 5 grandchildren, Kat, Erin, Jamie, Elizabeth, and Maggie as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Friday February 11, 2005 at 11AM in Holy Cross Church, 631 South State Street Dover, Delaware.

Friends and family may call Thursday from 7 to 9PM in the Faries Funeral Chapel, 29 South Main Street Smyrna, Delaware.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to the Kent County SPCA, 32 Shelter Circle, Camden DE 19934.

Letters of condolence may be sent to www.farisfuneralhomes.com

(02/07/05)