Jerry J Neale

Jerry J Neale was born on February 12, 1976 and passed away on February 4, 2026, off on a fishing adventure in a place the rest of us can’t go.

He had a heart of gold and to know him was to love him. He could light up any room with his presence and his quick wit and playful sense of humor meant he could make anyone laugh, often when they least expected it. He was confident without being arrogant, fiercely loyal to those he loved, and had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and cared for. Loving, mischievous, and endlessly charming, Jerry left a mark on every life he touched.

Jerry earned his Master’s degree in Social Work from Michigan State University, an accomplishment he worked incredibly hard to achieve and one that meant a great deal to him. His time at MSU reflected his determination, perseverance, and commitment to helping others. He also owned and operated a construction company for a period of time, an experience that further shaped his work ethic and resilience.

Jerry was an avid fisherman who was happiest with a rod in his hand and a story to tell. He loved being out on the water, especially when he could bring along his daughter, nieces, and nephews to teach them the ropes, and maybe exaggerate just a little about the one that got away. Some of his best memories were made fishing side by side, laughing as much as they were casting lines.

In recent years, he discovered a new adventure at local flea markets. Jerry never met a bargain he didn’t like. He had a sharp eye for a deal and took great pride in turning someone else’s castoff into his next great find. Half the fun was the negotiating, and the other half was the stories he’d bring home afterward.

Jerry loved a good road trip, whether it was a quick drive or a long haul, especially if Kaylin was riding shotgun. The two of them were always up for fishing, laughing, and just getting out and having fun. And of course, no trip was complete without FrenchFry, their wild, energetic pup who kept things interesting and made sure there was never a dull moment.

As a brother and uncle, Jerry always made it a point to tell those he loved how much they meant to him. He had a big heart, and his family knew it. His love was clear in the jokes he shared, the time he spent, and the support he offered, even during the times he struggled in life. He embraced everything he was involved with, giving his full energy, his humor, and his love to the people and activities that mattered most to him.

Jerry is survived by his daughter, Kaylin Hamilla; his parents, Gayle and Michael McCall; biological father, Gerald Neale; sisters: Heather (Terry) Woodbury and Destany (Henry) Krueger; nieces; Kamyshia (Robert) Dimich, Hailey Woodbury (Devin Kimble), Madison Woodbury, and Kiah Watters (Brandon Stimson); nephews: Dylan Wirth, James Rebeaud Jr., Landon Watters (Ava Ng), Jaxon Woodbury, Henry Krueger VII, and Jace Woodbury; and great-nieces and great-nephews; Bentley Wirth, Richard Leonard IV, Robert Dimich Jr., Ryker Dimich, Audrey Wirth, Posie Stimson, and Nixon Stimson.

He was preceded in death by many beloved grandparents, Uncle Kenneth McCall, Aunt Deborah Tedford, and his cherished dog, Princess.