Clara Neal

Reflections of LifeGod saw you were getting weary, So He did what He thought was best. He came and stood beside you And whispered, "Come and rest." You said no last goodbye, Only God knows why. The Rising of the Sun Clara Mae Sims Neal, affectionately known to many as "C. B.," was born on February 21, 1940, in Lincoln, Alabama, to the union of Bryant and Nona McCluney Sims. Life's DepartureOn Thursday, July 16th, at 1:35 a.m., Clara, the last of eleven siblings, answered the Master's call: "Come and rest." The Gleaming of the Sun Clara attended Drew School in Lincoln, Alabama, and graduated from Talladega County Training School. Shortly afterward, she relocated to Paterson, New Jersey, seeking a better way of life. It was there that she met and married Roy Neal, the love of her life. Clara retired from Kem Manufacturing after thirty years of dedicated service. She was a faithful and dedicated member of Unity Missionary Baptist Church, where she served as a devoted choir member. Later, she moved back to Lincoln, Alabama, and rededicated her life to St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church before her health began to decline. The Shining of the Sun Those she leaves behind to cherish her loving memory include her primary caretakers, niece and nephew Roberta and Jesse Oliver; Mary Fomby, Diane Collins (adopted daughter), Eddie Wright, April Gross, Jenny Savage, and Brooke Savage; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She also leaves to cherish her memory her childhood best friend, Juanita Johnson of Lincoln, Alabama; Jean Montgomery of Sumpter, South Carolina; and her road partner, Patricia Glover of Lincoln, Alabama. Tribute Dear family and friends, If you don't know me by now, you will never know me. I want you to know that I have moved. I received a call from the Chief Architect, who informed me that my new house was ready and that I could move immediately. Well, my new home is finished, and it is such a beautiful sight to behold. It is located in an exclusive estate area and sits behind a beautiful pearly gate. There is peace, joy, and happiness here, with no more pain to bear, no strife, and no discontent. I could go on exploring around my new home, but I have to get fitted for my wings. Let me give you my new address, because I highly recommend that you make plans to live here too: Clara Mae Sims Neal 12 Gates to the City Avenue God's Town, Heaven 7-7-7-7-7 Oh, yes, let me tell you this: I don't have a telephone yet, but first, call God. If you don't have His number, He is listed in the Good Book on every page. Contact Him. Acknowledgment The family of the late Clara Mae Sims Neal wishes to express sincere thanks to everyone who has offered their support during this difficult time. For all you have done to lighten her load and brighten her pathway, we are grateful. A special thanks is extended to Gentiva Hospice for your excellent care and service and to S.M. Goodson Funeral Home for your professional service. Your kindness is deeply appreciated, and we offer our heartfelt gratitude. May God's richest blessings be with you always. She Is Preceded in Death By Her parents, Bryant and Nona Sims; six sisters, Rena, Mary, Beatrice, Vivian, Virginia, and Margaret; four brothers, William, James, Thomas, and David; and nieces and nephews. The Setting of the Sun On the morning of Thursday, July 17th, at 1:35 a.m., the clock of life stood still. Her smile has gone, and her hands we cannot touch. Still, we have so many memories of the one we love so much. Her memory is our keepsake, With which we will never part. God has her in His keeping, And we have her in our hearts.

Tributes

Clara Neal

February 21, 1940 - July 16, 2026