Monte Irwin Neal Sr., in his 63 ^rd season of life transitioned on Friday, March 2, 2018. He was born to John Madison and Coretha Grundy Neal on July 6, 1954 in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Monte was a graduate of Hot Springs High School Class of 1972. After graduating from high school, Monte went on to serve in the United States Army as a cook until 1992. He met his wife, Naomi while stationed at Fort Bragg, NC. They were married March 1979 in Fayetteville, NC. It was Monte's love of food and cooking that led him to earn an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts after leaving the military. He also loved volunteering at the gift shop St. Vincent's Hospital.

Monte was preceded in death by: his parents, John and Coretha Neal; his beloved son, Monte Irwin Neal Jr.; his brothers, John "Pete" Neal Jr. and Charles Neal; his sister, Ardella "Mae" Washington.

Monte leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Naomi Neal of Fayetteville, NC; his children, Shalonda (Bartholomew) Neal-Williamson of Newnan, GA; Raymond Neal, Natasha Neal Faulkner, and Jonathan Neal all of Fayetteville, NC.; his siblings: Helen Ward, Leontyne "Tyna" Crutchfield, Cozetta King, Jerri Ann Cotton, Shirley (Cliff) Butler, Gilbert (Flora) Neal, Arthur "Ray" (Ardelia) Neal, LeAnita "Nita"(Darryl) Muldrew, and Bobby Neal; his sister-in-law, Rose Neal and Barbara Johnson: his brother-in-law ,Willie McDougald Jr.; his mother-in-law, Marcella McDougald; 19 grandchildren, an abundance of nieces and nephews, as well as friends, and the fellas at "The Shop" as he would say.

Funeral service will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 10, 2018 at Eureka Baptist Church with Pastor Steve R. Lake, officiating. Visitation will be Friday, March 9, 2018 from 5:00 – 6:30 PM at the funeral home.

Guest registry is at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.