Norma Jean Neal

Norma Jean Bates Neal, 89, of Johnson City, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2020, at the Johnson City Medical Center.

She was a native of Sullivan County, and daughter of the late John W. and Ida Rich Bates. She lived most of her life as a resident of Johnson City.

Norma Jean was a christian of the pentecostal faith, who enjoyed going to church.

Norma was a caregiver, for employment and also for those she knew who needed her help. She also worked in manufacturing and raised three daughters. She loved her family and especially took joy from spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She enjoyed flowers, always outside gardening with one plant or another when she was able. Her dogs were her favorite companions.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by three husbands, Lester B. Whitson, Robert S. Glass, and Robert S. Neal; one son, Lester Whitson Jr.; two brothers, James and Harold; five sisters, Patsy, Erma, Pauline, Ethel, and Una; three sons-in-law, Roger H. Carder, Boyd E. Greene, and Jerry R. Marshall Sr.

Those left to cherish her memory include: three daughters, Brenda Marshall, Patricia Cole, Linda Baker and her husband Richard; two sisters, Margaret Josephine Caldwell and Alma Phyllis Davis; twelve grandchildren, Tammy, Jerry Jr., James, Kenneth, Frankie, Allan, Katina, Roger Jr., Melissa, Diana, Robert Lee and Bobby Joe; numerous great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family of Norma Jean Neal will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, June 29, 2020, at Morris-Baker Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Spencer. A committal service will be conducted at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, June 30, 2020, at Monte Vista Memorial Park. Friends and family are asked to gather at the graveside by 9:50 AM.