Jeanette Joy Neal

Jeanette Joy Neal passed away at age 59 in Toledo, Ohio on August 3, 2024, after a valiant battle with cancer. She returned to the Lord in peace and devotion, while surrounded by her family and close friends. Throughout her journey, Jeanette maintained her kind spirit, unwavering faith, love and appreciation for her family. 

Jeanette was born August 20, 1964, to parents Jacqueline Mars and Leroy Neal in Toledo, Ohio. After graduating from Rogers High School, she studied at college and took interests in culinary arts and real estate. She spent the majority of her life working as a machine operator and spent the last 15 years specializing in battery manufacturing.

Jeanette was cherished by her grandchildren and they affectionately referred to her as Jen-Jen. She looked forward to their visits for summer vacation and took them on trips to amusement parks. She was an avid cook and foodie and loved cooking for her family, especially on holidays and special occasions. Jeanette immensely loved to travel and took yearly vacations to a multitude of destinations. She enjoyed football and was a lifelong Steelers fan. She also began painting as a hobby, which later became therapeutic, and her beautiful creations amazed her children. Jeanette was the pillar of her family and sole provider for her children. 

During her journey with cancer, Jeanette never ceased to be the woman we knew and loved. She still enjoyed spending time with her family, going to church, visiting her mother, and talking with her daughters and grandchildren. She still maintained her smile and humor, and looked forward to overcoming her circumstances each day. She was thankful for every moment and walked through life with grace.

Jeanette is survived by her mother, Jacqueline Neal; daughters, Natasha (sp. Hananiah), Tiara (sp. Lorenzo), Nishia; grandchildren, Hasana, Elijah, Josiah, Loren, Joshua; great-granddaughter, Akili; sister, Kimberly; brother, Matthew; and "sister-cousin," Andrea. She is also survived by her loving extended family of uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends. Jeanette was predeceased by her father, Leroy Neal.

Jeanette’s celebration of life ceremony will be held at Universal New Beginnings church on August 20, 2024, located at 763 Vance Street Toledo, OH 43604. Viewing will begin at 11:00am, with services beginning at 12:00pm. Flowers may be sent to the church on the day of the ceremony. She will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery, followed by a repast and celebration of her life and birthday.