Martha Neal

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we honor the life of Martha Jean Walton Neal, who transitioned from labor to reward on July 28, 2025, in Gautier, Mississippi.

Born in Friars Point, Mississippi, Martha was the daughter of Mary Louise Walton and Eddie Lee Jakes. She was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Mary “Madea” Walton and Jodie “Daddy” Walton. From an early age, Martha was known for her grit, bold spirit, and unstoppable determination. She was sharp, driven, and carried herself with strength and integrity—a woman who got things done and did them well.

At 14, Martha gave her life to Christ at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. She later served faithfully at New Era Missionary Baptist Church in Gautier, where her faith and generosity touched countless lives.

In 1977, she married her childhood sweetheart, Michael Neal Sr., and the two built a life full of faith, family, and fierce love. For 29 years, they were a team—raising boys, cheering on the Saints, and making memories that still echo in every corner of their home. When the Lord called Michael home, Martha leaned on her faith and carried their legacy forward with the same strength, grace, and fire they built it on.

A proud graduate of Coahoma Agricultural High School, Martha earned her associate degree from Coahoma Junior College and completed both a Bachelor of Science and MBA at Alcorn State University. She built a respected career at Chevron and Ingalls Shipyard, always leading with excellence and integrity. Yet her most meaningful work was in the lives she nurtured—her family, her church, and her community.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sons: Michael Neal Jr. and his wife Amanda, Morio Neal, and Marcellus Neal; her grandchildren: Michael V. Neal, Quadarius Tarrio, Jeremiah Neal, D’Mario Neal, Caspian Neal, Cassie and Autumn McReynolds; and her great-grandchildren: Emery Perry, Michael A. Neal, Alex Tarrio, and Jeremiah “Baby J” Neal.

Also honoring her life are her uncle James Shelby, her siblings, many nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and members of her cherished church family and community. Martha was surrounded throughout her life by a circle of forever friends whose loyalty and love were unwavering.

Her legacy of faith, warmth, and strength will live on in all who knew her.

Visitation will be Friday, August 8, 2025, at O'Bryant - O'Keefe Funeral Home in Gautier, from 6:00pm - 8:00pm. The Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 9, 2025, at New Era Baptist Church beginning at 11:00am. 

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