Edward Wayne McNeal of Van Buren County passed away on March 19, 2025. He was born July 17, 1949, to the late Anna Dodson McNeal and E.C. “Chip” McNeal. He was also predeceased by his brother James “Jimmy” McNeal, and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins & friends.

On Dec. 21, 1969, he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Mullins McNeal. They were in love for more than 57 years.

Wayne was a member of the McMinnville City High School Class of 1967. He graduated from MTSU & was commissioned as a U.S. Army Second Lieutenant in 1971. He worked for several engineering firms, most recently Gresham Smith, even consulting after retiring.

He was a member of Pleasant Cove Church of Christ, having served other congregations as a deacon. He volunteered with youth groups & missions.

He loved farming and feeding cows with his grandkids. His children & grandchildren were the lights of his life, and he spoiled them every chance he got. He told amazing tales and could fix and explain the inner workings of almost anything. He could often be found petting a dog while drinking coffee.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Nancy, daughter and son-in-law Joanna & Brent Carden; son and daughter-in-law Carson & Holly McNeal; son Connor McNeal & Anthony Drawdy; grandsons Caleb Carden, Jude McNeal, Silas McNeal, & Dansby Carden; and granddaughters Ava Carden & Norah McNeal. He is also survived by many other dear family members.

Mr. McNeal will be cremated and buried privately with no visitation or service at High’s.

Friends and family are invited to visit with the family and offer condolences at Pleasant Cove Church of Christ on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Memorial contributions are requested for H.O.M.E., Homeless of McMinnville Effort.