Henry Douglas Neal

Henry Douglas Neal, of Morganton, died September 18, 2009, at his residence at Grace Ridge. Born in Albemarle on July 20, 1927, he was a son of the late John Clyde Neal and Monte Liles Neal. A U.S. Navy veteran, Doug attended Duke University and was graduated from UNC Chapel Hill. He completed post-graduate work in hospital administration at James Walker Hospital in Wilmington, and served for over 25 years as a hospital administrator.Doug was a long-time member of Grace Episcopal Church, serving on the vestry and numerous committees. Next to his family, he loved his garden, which brought him much purpose and peace. He also enjoyed reading, antiquing, and travelling.He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jane Spencer Neal; a daughter, Caroline Neal McLester and her husband, Ralph, and two grandsons, Grayson and Kel McLester of Raleigh. He is also survived by a brother, John C. Neal, Jr. and wife, Catherine; a sister, Mary Frances Gilmore and husband, Jimmy; and numerous nieces and nephews.A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 22, at 2:30 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church with the Reverend Bruce Walker officiating. The family will receive friends in the Parish House immediately following the service. Private entombment will be in the Grace Episcopal Church Memorial Garden.Memorial contributions may be made to the Grace Episcopal Church Endowment Fund, 303 S. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.