Bill Neal, a longtime well-known educator, coach and athletic director for Channelview ISD, passed away Thursday, April 27, 2017.
Neal worked as a teacher and coach in Channelview from 1959-1963 before his election to the Channelview ISD Board of Trustees in October of 1966 where he served until April 1978. Neal returned to the district later in 1978 as the Athletic Director and served in that position until his retirement in 1994. He was described by many as a special person that made a positive impact on many young lives by his caring nature and leading by example.
The district’s athletic arena, which was approved by voters of the 2009 bond program, is named in Neal’s honor. Neal was a standout athlete during his college career. He played basketball for the University of Houston and earned numerous honors.
Neal is survived by his loving wife Jerry, former CISD employee, and their two children, Joe Neal and Wendy Rodden, along with four grandchildren. Wendy is mother to granddaughter, Jennifer Rodden and Joe and wife Summer are parents to grandsons, William, Tyler and Zachary Neal.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, May 1 at Dell Dale Avenue Baptist Church, 402 Dell Dale.