LANCASTER, SC – Rev. William Steve Neal, known to many as “Preacher Steve” or “Preacher Neal” age 91, passed away on May 14, 2026 at MUSC-Lancaster. He was born on January 7, 1935, in Kershaw, SC and was the son of the late Leroy Troy Neal and the late Etta Mae Hammond Neal and was the husband of Linda Carol Bowers Neal.

Preacher Neal faithfully dedicated more than 60 years of his life to serving the Lord through his calling as a pastor. Throughout those years, he lovingly ministered to congregations at Beaver Creek Baptist Church, Providence Baptist Church in Pageland, and Flint Ridge Baptist Church. His greatest passion was preaching the Gospel and leading others to the Lord, a mission he carried out faithfully throughout his life.

A simple man at heart, Preacher Neal found joy in God’s creation. He loved spending time outdoors and especially enjoyed tending to his garden. At the time of his passing, he was a devoted member of Fork Hill Baptist Church.

Above all else, Preacher Neal loved his family dearly and they brought him tremendous pride and happiness, and he cherished the fellowship of his brothers and sisters in Christ. His life was a testimony of faith, humility, and unwavering devotion to God.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Preacher Neal is survived by his wife of 69 years; Carol Neal; his three children, Hal Neal (Linda), Mark Neal (Jennifer), and Greta Beaver (Clint); his seven grandchildren, Candace Pappas (Tim), Taylor Neal, Amber Harrison, Adam Harrison (Kendall), Dylan Harrison (Haley), Justin Neal, and Jace Beaver; eleven great-grandchildren; and many special family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Etta Neal; his three brothers, Marion Neal, Archie Neal, and Bruce Neal; his three sisters, Claudia Williams, Edith Lowry, and Doris Hancock; great-grandson, Austin Kruz Harrison-Freeman.

The Celebration of Life Funeral Service for Preacher Neal will be 3:00 pm Monday, May 18, 2026 at Fork Hill Baptist Church officiated by his nephew, Rev. Tim Lowry, Pastor Adam Furr, Rev. Dale Walters, and Pastor Josh Twitty. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, one hour prior to the service in the church fellowship hall and at all other times at the home of Preacher Neal and Mrs. Carol.

In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Fork Hill Baptist Church, Lottie Moon Christmas Fund, 1125 Fork Hill Rd., Heath Springs, SC 29058.