Bruce Hazel Neal

Bruce Hazel Neal, age 87, of Kershaw, S.C. was born March 11, 1937, in Kershaw. S.C. Mr. Neal passed away peacefully on August 29,2024, at Karesh at Beechwood, Camden, S.C. surrounded by his loving family. 

He was the son of the late Rev. Roy Neal and Etta Hammond Neal. On October 24th, 1959, he married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, the late Phyllis Catoe Neal who preceded him in death on August 18th, 2023. 

For over 50 years, he was a faithful member of First Baptist Church, Kershaw, where he served in many capacities. Bruce truly was a fisher of men, as he shared his faith with everyone he met. In his younger years, Bruce enjoyed going on mission trips with his church and was instrumental in starting a local mission’s group in Kershaw to serve the needs of his community. Even in his final days, Bruce continued to share his love of the Lord with friends, family and his caregivers. 

After his retirement as a residential home builder, Bruce started a second career teaching carpentry to the inmates at Kershaw Correctional Institution. He imparted not only practical skills but also shared life lessons that would benefit them long after their release. 

Bruce was an athlete in high school, playing football and baseball for the Kershaw Eagles. He played first base on the 1954 South Carolina State Championship team and the 1955 State Championship runner-up team. 

He is survived by his children, Martha Neal of Columbia, S.C., Darrell Neal (Donna) of Columbia, S.C. and Kevin Neal (Kim) of McDonough, Georgia; and six grandchildren, Emily Neal, Madison Neal, Caitlyn Neal, Kennedy Neal, Tyler Cooley (Leah) and Austin Cooley who remember him as the very best dad and Paw Paw Bruce. He is also survived by his brothers, Rev. Dr. Archie Neal, and Rev. Steve (Carol) Neal and numerous nieces and nephews. His many friends and family will fondly remember Bruce for his contagious smile and infectious laugh. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his bride of 64 years, Phyllis Catoe Neal, his father-in-law, Roy J. Catoe, Sr., mother-in-law, Alice C. Catoe, his siblings, Claudia (Douglas) Williams, Edith Lowry, Doris (Hank) Hancock, Marion (Doris) Neal. He was also preceded in death by his triplet granddaughters whom he was looking forward to reuniting within Heaven. 

The family will greet friends on Sunday, September 1st, 2024, from 3-5 p.m. at Baker Conference Center, 105 N. Minor Street, Kershaw, S.C.

A celebration of life service will be held at First Baptist Kershaw, 210 N. Matson St., Kershaw S.C., Monday, September 2nd, 2024, in the sanctuary beginning at 11:00 A.M. Rev. Jakob Elliott will officiate. The burial will follow in the Kershaw City Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Kershaw, P.O. Box 67, Kershaw S.C. 29067 in memory of Mr. Neal.

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, S.C.