Earl H. Neal, age 79, of Cincinnati, Ohio, formerly of Pine Knot, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Alois Nursing Home in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Earl was born on July 14, 1946, in Pine Knot, Kentucky, to the late Alvis and Eva Neal.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Wanda Sue (Lay) Neal; his parents, Alvis and Eva Neal; and his son-in-law, Mark Hines.

Earl leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his children, Crystal (Todd) Maringer, Trisha Hines, and a special son, Danny Allen Lay. He was a proud and devoted Papaw to his grandchildren, Robert (Maggie) King, Kaitlyn (Ryan) Hassler, Haley (Tyler) McGraw, Brandi Hines (Jake Baute), and Chase Maringer (Avery Carlisle). He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Isabella, Dakota, Rylynn, Georgia, Oaklynn, and Delaney, with three more great-grandchildren on the way.

Earl spent much of his life working as a painter, a trade he took great pride in. He believed in hard work, taking care of his family, and treating people with kindness and respect. He was the kind of man who would lend a helping hand whenever it was needed and never expected anything in return.

He loved watching the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cincinnati Reds, and if a game was on, chances are Earl was watching. He enjoyed the simple things in life—good conversations, family gatherings, and spending time with the people he loved most.

Above all else, Earl loved his family. Being a father was one of the greatest rewards and blessings of his life. He was proud of his daughters and the family they built, and nothing brought him more joy than watching them grow. Being a Papaw was equally special to him, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren meant the world to him. The love he had for his family was evident in everything he did, and the memories he created with them will be treasured forever.

Papaw never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome. He loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

His wife, Wanda, was truly the love of his life. After losing her, life was never quite the same. He missed her every day, and while he continued on surrounded by the love of his family, the absence of his lifelong companion was a burden he carried in his heart. We find comfort knowing they are reunited once again in the presence of Jesus Christ. Earl had given his life to the Lord, and his family finds peace in knowing he has been welcomed into his heavenly home, reunited with those he loved and made whole again.

Mamaw spoiled him rotten, and after her passing, the family proudly followed her example, caring for him with the same devotion, compassion, and love until the very end.

Earl was a kind, caring, and loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose warmth touched the lives of everyone he met. His generous heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering love for his family will be remembered and cherished forever.

In accordance with his wishes, a private burial was held for immediate family.

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, support, and kindness during this difficult time.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.

Obituary written by family.

Hickman Strunk Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Earl Neal.