John Neal Jr.

March 19, 1969 - November 6, 2019

My beautiful brother, Johnny, passed away at the age of 50, on November 6, 2019. He was born on March 19, 1969, at Kaiser hospital in Bellflower, to our parents, John and Anna Neal. We grew up in Bell Gardens. Johnny attended St. Gertrude’s Elementary and graduated from Pius X High School ~Class of 1987. We moved to Downey in 1980, and my brother lived in Downey ever since.

He attended Cerritos College, then transferred to the University of Iowa. After a year of enduring a super cold winter, he came back home and graduated from California State University, Dominguez Hills with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and later received his teaching credentials.

My brother worked in education, which included substitute teaching positions at Downey Unified and Little Lake Unified School Districts. He finally found his true calling as an ESL Adult school teacher for Whittier Union Adult School, which is where he has worked for the last fifteen years. He was extremely proud to be a teacher. His students loved him and always called him, Mr. John.

Johnny’s favorite place to hang out and chat with his friends was at the Starbucks on Lakewood and Firestone. As a matter of fact, it was easier to get a hold of him at Starbucks than on his phone.

My brother had such a big heart. He was a great friend, an amazing teacher, and a loving son and brother. He was devoted to his family. He would go above and beyond to help any and all people. His kindness knew no boundaries.

We miss him dearly, especially his smile, laugh, and incredible sense of humor. Please keep him in your hearts and prayers. Love your family and friends.

Celebration of Life services Monday, November 25, 2019 Rose Hills Memorial Chapel 9am.

God Bless, The Neal Family