John Neal Sr., a dedicated farmer, pioneering rice breeder, and Navy veteran, passed away on June 3, 2025, in Yuba City, California. He was 90 years old.
Born on April 22, 1935, in Webster County, Mississippi, John was raised in a rural setting that would shape the course of his life. The son of Alvie and Rudine Neal, he grew up alongside his siblings Irby Neal, Billy Neal, Maxine Brown, and Earline Knight. In addition John leaves ten nieces and three nephews who held a special place in his heart throughout his lifetime.
In the 1950s, John answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. He served honorably as a Petty Officer during the Korean War.
After completing his service, John returned to Mississippi where he spent three decades working as a farmer. His passion for agriculture eventually led him westward to California, where he embarked on a new chapter as a rice breeder. His work with Lundberg Family Farms left a lasting legacy of rice. Grocery stores across the nation continue to carry varieties of rice that bear the mark of his innovation and dedication.
John's legacy lives on through his family: sons John Middleton Neal Jr. and Robert Turner Neal; daughter-in-law Sandra Neal; grandson Philip Orrin Neal; and granddaughter Lilith Athena Neal.
