Russell Earl Neel Jr.
July 6, 1943 - January 9, 2020
“And he will raise you up on eagles’s wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of His hand.” Russell Earl Neel, Jr., age 73, passed away on Thursday, January 9, 2020. He was born on July 6, 1946 in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. Russell came to the United States on August 23, 1958 and was a longtime resident of Ponchatoula. He was a United States Army veteran proudly serving during the Vietnam War in the 9th Infantry Division in 1967 through 1969. Some of Russell’s hobbies include fishing, watching birds, sports, LSU, going to the beach, and spending time with his family and four-legged pal, Bullet. On June 26, 1970, he married his wife, Mary Harrell Neel. Russell is survived by his loving wife, Mary; son, Russell E. “Rusty” Neel, III; daughter, Lorien Neel Sterling, and her husband, Scott Sterling; grandchildren, Shelby Sterling, Shaylee Sterling, Jaden Sterling, and Saydie Sterling; and aunt, Betty Neel Whitledge. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws. He is preceded in death by his father, Russell E. Neel, Sr.; mother, Lorien Ezell Knox; and stepfather, Kenneth Knox. A private graveside service at Ponchatoula Cemetery will be held. Services are entrusted to Brandon G. Thompson Funeral Home, Hammond.
“And he will raise you up on eagles’s wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of His hand.” Russell Earl Neel, Jr., age 73, passed away on Thursday, January 9, 2020.... View Obituary & Service Information