Vandyke Neal Jr.

"Goodbyes are not forever, Goodbyes aren't the end, They simply mean i miss you until we meet again!"

VanDyke Neal Jr. “aka Dyke” was born on July 18, 1951, in Straight Creek, Kentucky. He was the first born child of the late VanDyke Neal Sr. and Mazadine Layfield Neal and the big brother to Van Glen, Renita Vanessa (deceased) and James (deceased).

In 1953, VanDyke and his parents moved to Cleveland, Ohio where he grew up in the Hough and 55th street neighborhood. He was protective and loyal to his friends; and well respected in the streets. He said what he meant, he meant what he said and whatever he said you could depend on it. He developed many lifelong friendships. On Sundays, he could be found playing dominoes with his closet friends.

Vandyke was educated in the Cleveland Public School System. He attended Kennard Jr. High and East Tech. He received his high school diploma from Fairfield High School. He was adamant supporter of his brother Van Glen Sr, You could always find him at Van Glen’s  basketball games cheering him on. His love for fashion became evident when he would attend the dances and parties after the games. Always one of the sharpest dressers there. Gators, hats, and suits were his trademark.

VanDyke along with his parents and siblings attended Progressive Baptist Church. In his later years he would fellowship at Pilgrim Church of Christ. He loved the Lord with all of his heart. One of the last songs he sang from his hospital bed was “Amazing Grace”.

He was the proud father of Heidi, Troy, and Rashaun. He loved them with all his heart. In his final days he would light up when Troy and Shaun would enter the room.
In 1993, Vandyke met the love of life Juvere, his “Shortening Bread”. Together they raised Essence, Pierre, Princess, Gloria, and Sergio. He loved them as his own and taught them many lessons. One of his favorite sayings to the kids was “Ducking makes your hand bad.”

VanDyke loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was always at the movies. He loved to swim and workout, he was a smooth line dancer. After turning his his life around in the early  90’s he joined NA and was a very active member. His favorite past time was traveling. He traveled to Mexico, Dominican Republican, Jamaica, and Aruba.
On Friday, November 23, 2018 surrounded by his loved ones VanDyke was healed, the sun burst through the clouds, the sun shined brightly and God called Vandyke Neal Jr. home. Although our hearts are heavy we find comfort in knowing he is free of sickness and pain. We will cherish the memories, advice and unconditional love he gave us forever.

He leaves behind to carry on his legacy:
The love of his life Juvere Davis, Bonus Mother; Mae Johnson, children; Heidi, Troy, Shaun, Essence (her fiancée Phil), Pierre, Princess, Gloria, and Sergio. Grandchildren; Brooklyn, (her husband Brandon), Elyse. Vynetta, Louis III, Brittany, Brenton, Bria, and Gem.Great Grandchildren; Paris, Lundon, Camden. Brother; Van Glen Neal Sr. Aunts; Priscilla Simmons, Mary Ann Johnson. Sister-Laws and Brother In-Laws, Nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

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