Obituaries

I was just informed of Neal’s passing. I am very sad hearing this news. Neal was a great friend while in Blacksburg and he always made sure to keep in touch with his friends including me and my then husband, Eddie Fowlkes. He will be missed so much! Heaven is better having him there and we have a loss here on earth. God bless.

Posted by Laurie Cox Fowlkes Arthur on June 25, 2021

Neal was a joy to be around and I enjoyed working with him at NVESD. We spend numerous days under frigid conditions at a test site investigating the bloom effects of heated air. It was an interesting exercise and we had fun doing it despite the fact that the results were unexpectedly poor. He took it in stride though and merely mentioned that 'negative results are still results so the exercise was successful'. I have an addiction to submitting humorous 'Weekly Quotes' to our bulletin board. He never missed an opportunity to stop by to comment on them (& let me know if I was past due for a submission). I usually keep a bowl of candy in my office but it rarely got shared with everyone (Neal & I usually depleted the stock before anyone else got to indulge). If it was peanut clusters, he didn't even leave much for me. God bless you Neal. Keep a spot ready for me up there.

Posted by Thomas Becker on April 7, 2021

My sincere condolences to Neal’s family and friends.

Posted by Bob (Jr)) Eakes on April 6, 2021

My sincere condolences to Neal’s family and friends.

Posted by Bob (Jr)) Eakes on April 6, 2021

I had the good fortune to get to know Neal through work. He is one of the most intelligent people I've ever met, yet incredibly humble. Able to take the most complex matter and make it understandable to anyone. The world is a better place because Neal impact & presence - and his departure will leave a void in those who knew him. Thoughts and prayers that he's in a better place.

Posted by Anonymous on April 2, 2021

What an amazing man. He never bragged about his many accomplishments. He always saw the good in people, and never said an unkind word about anyone. He loved Chase City, and always found ways to help this city by buying locally. We enjoyed going to dinner with him and friend at Lois’s Restaurant. He loved walking out behind our house, and going down to the bridge. He also enjoyed nature. One thing he enjoyed more than anything was his music. Neal will be missed so dearly. I know he is playing music in Heaven this day and forever. Miss you Neal. The Alleys

Posted by Ron and Rose Alley Chase City, VA on March 29, 2021

Neal was one of those rare souls. I was fortunate to be neighbors to Elwood and Nancy and see Neal when he came home on weekends. He was selfless in his care for his parents. We had mountains of fun with our mutual neighbors the Henry’s and their boys when they were in their infant and toddler years. My heart goes out to all who knew and loved him and I wish him eternal peace.

Posted by Georgana Pryce on March 25, 2021

My sincerest and deepest condolences to the family. It was an honor to have met you and I am sorry you are not here with us again. You are now with our Lord. Cousin Laura

Posted by Laura J Blackwell on March 25, 2021

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends. He was such a kind and gentle spirited man. I remember him from Dr. Moore's office when I worked there, his parents were the salt of the earth and he did a great job taking care of them.

Posted by Tammy Harvey Olsen on March 25, 2021

Safely in the arms of Jesus! Rejoice I tell you! Rejoice!

Posted by Anonymous on March 25, 2021

I extend my sincere condolences to the family. I was deeply moved by the compassion and love shown by cousin Neal during his Blackwell Family Tree presentation in 2019. His kindness, love and compassion will never be forgotten.

Posted by Ernestine Doles on March 25, 2021

You will be missed! Rest in peace my friend.

Posted by Marilyn Williamson McCluster on March 25, 2021

I am just stunned to hear of Neals passing. He was such a kind sweet man. He will be truly missed.

Posted by Debbie McCall on March 24, 2021

Sorry to hear of Neal's passing, he will be missed. We grieve but not without hope. Neal is rejoicing with the Savior he loved and served.

Posted by James Lavelle on March 24, 2021

Neal and I were good friends growing up. We did a lot of music together at First Baptist Chase City and later he started coming to Olive Branch where I am a member and became a big part of the praise team there. Neal loved playing his guitar and teaching others. He will be greatly missed.

Posted by Richard L Harris on March 24, 2021

Sending love and heartfelt condolences to the family. I will miss his phone calls and text message. A good, kind man gone too soon. Rest in Heavenly peace Cousin Neal.

Posted by JoAnne Blackwell on March 24, 2021

I'm so sorry to hear about the homegoing of Neal. I did not get the opportunity to meet him personally but was told that he was a very knowledgeable person regarding the Blackwell Family. I extend my sincere condolences to his immediate family.

Posted by Carroll Holland on March 24, 2021

Neil was a good man and will surely be missed. He and I played in the band together at Bluestone, and Neal was always cheerful and positive. I have many fond memories of Neal from our youth. Rest in Peace dear friend.

Posted by Sam Daniel on March 24, 2021

I am so terribly sorry for the passing of Neal. He was a wonderful person and I had known him all my life. I remember going to his home when I was growing up. Prayers for comfort and peace for all his family.

Posted by Wanda Chandler on March 24, 2021