David W. “Dave” Neal, 78, of Somerset, Ohio, passed away peacefully at The Pickering House on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, after a two-year battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family. Dave was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished “Pa”, faithful Christian and respected elder of the Somerset Church of Christ. Dave was born in his childhood home in New Lexington, Ohio to Frank and Lena (Patterson) Neal. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Wandlea Griffith, Carol Treadway; and brother, Noah Neal. Dave lived a life of unwavering faith, strength, honor and love. He faithfully served Christ throughout his life and was honored to serve as an elder in his church for many years, where he encouraged others through his wisdom, compassion and steadfast commitment to God’s Word. After graduating from New Lexington High School, he continued his education at DeVry University and The Columbus Drafting College. He also served in the Army National Guard from 1969 to 1977 and attained the rank of SSG E6. He then dedicated 44 years of faithful service to Diamond Power in the engineering department, in marketing and sales support. He was also International Sales Manager and District Sales Manager. He built a well-respected career before retiring from the parent company, Babcock and Wilcox, located in northern Ohio as an Account Manager. Outside of his work, he enjoyed camping, bowling and spending time on the water. He loved visiting any beach with the family and spent many vacations near the ocean in the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida. Whether relaxing at the beach or enjoying a day at the lake with family and friends, he found happiness and treasured the memories he made with those he loved. Dave is survived by the love of his life of 56 years, Christine (Ford) Neal. Together they built a home centered on faith and unconditional love. He was a proud, caring dad to his daughter, Leslie Neal (Ray) Jenkins and found immense joy in being “Pa” to Jillian and Kade. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. His gentle guidance, patient heart and unwavering support will remain with them always. His servant’s heart was also evident in the many hours he devoted to teaching others about the love of God, volunteering at the Midwestern Children’s Home and the Hemley Rd. Church of Christ Bayou La Batre recovery project. He found great joy in serving others. On Monday July 27, 2026, at the Somerset Church of Christ, North Market Street in Somerset, visiting hours will be from 10:00 a.m. until noon, with the funeral at noon. Burial will follow in Somerset Cemetery. Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in God’s promise that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior. “Well done, thy good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord.” In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made through the North Market St. Church of Christ for support for the Hemley Rd. Church of Christ and Bayou recovery project in their efforts to support the community physically and spiritually, or the Pickering House in Lancaster, Ohio. Bope-Thomas Funeral Home in Somerset is entrusted with the arrangements