January 24, 1950 – May 28, 2025
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Neal W. Jones on May 28, 2025.
Neal was born on January 24, 1950, in Cottage Grove, Oregon, to R.L. and Grace Jones. He was a proud graduate of Creswell High School, class of 1968, where he excelled in wrestling and football, lettering all four years.
Neal had a deep love for the outdoors. Early in his career, he worked at Rekinie Lumber pulling on the green chain. His adventurous spirit led him to Washington and Alaska, where he cut timber and brush, blazed trails, and built roads. Later, he spent over twenty years with Murphy Logging, operating heavy equipment and loading logs—earning a reputation as one of the highest skilled operators around. Even after logging began to decline, Neal continued doing what he loved, working with Eugene Sand and Gravel, R & R Construction, and H & J Construction.
Neal retired and lived at Staffordshire and remained active, volunteering his time and skills by cutting wood, building bridges, and helping others. With his beloved golden retriever therapy dog, Suds, he volunteered at PeaceHealth Hospitals, bringing comfort and smiles to patients—a role he often described as the best job he ever had. He also served holiday meals at the Eugene Mission and delighted many by playing Santa Claus for children and adults alike.
A true outdoorsman, Neal loved gardening, fishing, camping, and remodeling—always embracing new challenges. He built a beautiful home for the love of his life, Karen, and spent countless joyful hours with friends and family. He also enjoyed playing pool and was known for his warm spirit and gentle heart.
Neal married Katherine Dunnington, and together they had three children: Angelica, Nick, and Jennifer. Later, in 1992, Neal married Karen Eusted Presley, whom he lovingly called the love of his life—a sentiment clear to anyone who saw them together.
Neal is survived by his wife, Karen; daughter, Angelica; nephew, Tim (Kim) Jones, niece, Cyndee (Ron) Kurahara, granddaughter Jessica, and grandson Calvin, 3 step children & multiple grand & great grandchildren. Neal’s faith in the Lord was central to his life. He walked with the Lord and found peace knowing he was carried home in His grace surrounded by his family.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the PeaceHealth Hospice team, whose care, compassion, and kindness brought comfort in Neal’s final days—they became like family.
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 84520 North Enterprise Rd, Pleasant Hill, OR 97455 (across from Pleasant Hill High School).
