We said goodbye to Richard Neal on April 5, 2025. Richard – husband, father, farmer and good neighbor in Williamsburg, Kansas – was already missed by his community, family, and wife, Mitzie, as he had spent his final years in the grip of dementia. Before dementia struck, Richard had a lifetime of days that started with a white T-shirt tucked into jeans, his work boots laced-up snug, and a quick walk to the family farm 100 yards down the road. His preference for simple dressing embodied the clarity of his internal compass – a man of unwavering moral vision often lifted by a clever sense of humor. He could be ornery, but he was quick-witted without malice – kindhearted and careful with his words to not hurt others. He was very aware of those who struggled and would never tolerate a bully. His heart was strong, and his head was clear in all the important ways.
Richard and Mitzie were part of the family farming operation which started with Richard’s grandfather, Edwin Neal. They entered the partnership with his parents, Lloyd and Thelma Neal, and his brother and wife, Charles and Vera Neal, in late 1960. Richard’s pragmatism kept him steady through the challenges of farming. “I wouldn’t have chosen it if I didn’t think I could make it work,” he would state. He had an unwavering commitment to caring for the land and the animals, and would note, “It’s our responsibility to be the best stewards of the land that we can – after I’m gone it’s up to the next person.” Then he’d give you a smile, and he had a great smile!
Richard enjoyed music (he played lots of jazz on his reel-to-reel tape deck), artistry (home and furniture design); keeping in touch with old friends; and engaging in the rhythm, laughter and learning of square dancing with the Ottawa Promenaders. The Williamsburg United Methodist Church was a cornerstone, and Richard also served on numerous church, county, and community boards.
Prior to farming, Richard followed his desire to learn how to fly. He earned his wings as a commissioned officer in Air Force Class 55P in 1954. He then used the GI Bill to help pay for his Kansas State University education. Richard and Mitzie joined the Neal Farm partnership upon completion of his degree.
Richard Warren Neal was born in 1934 to Lloyd and Thelma (Boyd) Neal in a farmhouse where he was raised and where he raised his family, in rural Franklin County near Williamsburg, Kansas. His older brother, Charlie, his lifelong friend and farming partner, preceded him in death. Richard is survived by his spouse of nearly 70 years, Mitzie (Dickinson) Neal; a sister, Maurine Herren; daughters Jeri Neal, Shawn Huntley, Dana Neal and husband Tom Ball; three grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
We celebrate his life, lived fully and well, and a Celebration of Life service with be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Williamsburg Community Library. The family wants to express much gratitude to the care given to Richard by Sunflower Care Home staff and Interim Hospice of Topeka.
