Doug Dexter
Neal was my father when I didn't have one.My father (Herb Dexter) died when I was 18 months old. Neal entered my life when I was twelve, and told me stories about my dad that my mom didn't even know. They both, along with Dick Chamblin, were the football center line for Decatur High in the 50s, were good friends, and as he liked to say, "well, we were just running buddies". Neal's wit, his work ethic, and his common sense were a shining example for me as a teenager and young man, and continue to serve me to this day. I learned to be who I am, in large part, to his insights into how people think, and how the world works.Neal, I owe you a debt that I can never repay; having said that, I also know that you don't consider it a debt, but that you consider it an honor to have helped Herb and Bev raise me. If I am a good man, Neal inspired, shaped, and helped to mold me to be that good man. I will miss him forever.God Bless you Neal. Enjoy your rest in heaven. You've earned it.