SHELBY: James "Jim" I. Neal, 89, died Monday, December 21, 2020 at White Oak Manor in Shelby. A native of Cleveland County, Jim was the son of the late Jess and Ida Kendrick Neal. He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church, and retired, after many years of service, as a dedicated funeral director with Clay-Barnette Funeral Home. He had a love for gardening, farming, and most of all, his grandchildren. Over the years, Jim served in numerous civic clubs and organizations. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Alda Anthony. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Ruth Elliott Neal; daughters, Lenora Neal Godfrey of Charlotte and Melanie Neal Morrison and husband Ace of Shelby; sons, Jimmy Neal and wife Amanda of Shelby and Rob Neal and wife Susan of Beaufort, SC; grandchildren, Richie Sparrow, Kevin Neal, Katherine Neal and Jesse Neal; and all his loving Kendrick and Neal cousins. A graveside service will be held 11am, Wednesday, December 23, 2020 in Sunset Cemetery, with the Rev. Tony Tench and Carol Ann Hoard officiating. Face mask and social distancing are recommended.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Shelby, 120 N Lafayette St, Shelby, NC 28150 or Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 2338 Pleasant Hill Church Rd, Shelby, NC 28152

FUNERAL HOME: Arrangements are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center

ONLINE CONDOLENCES: www.claybarnette.com