Neal Donald Clonce, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. He was born on November 2, 1939, the son of the late Clay and Ann Clonce. Throughout his life, he touched the hearts of many with his kind and gentle spirit.
Neal’s journey in life was marked by a deep sense of faith that he embraced from an early age at Mountain View Baptist Church. His dedication to his beliefs shone through in every aspect of his life. Neal dedicated countless years to working as a road grader operator before eventually retiring. However, retirement did not mark the end of his working days. In recent years leading up to his passing, Neal found joy and fulfillment at the Ewing Recycling Center. He enjoyed visiting with many friends within the community. He was always eager to share stories and make those around him smile.
One of Neal’s greatest joys in life was his family. Most of the stories he shared with friends, included his four great grandbabies whom he adored with all his heart. His legacy lives on through the love he shared with each member of his family.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years, Peggy Clonce; and his brothers, Lewis Clonce, Tom Clonce, and Dan Clonce.
Neal is survived by his sons: Donald (Mary) Clonce of Middlesboro, KY, James Clonce of Tazewell, TN, and Terry Clonce of Ewing, VA; daughter, Lisa (Craig) Thomas; grandchildren, Will (Hannah) Thomas, Emily (Trent) Hazlewood, Caleb (Hailey) Clonce, and Alexis (Tyler) Clonce; great-grandchildren: Kinsley, Parker, Beau, and Liam. He is also survived by his siblings, Mary (Jim) Bullock, Luke (Linda) Clonce, George (Evanell) Clonce, Paul (Shirley) Clonce, and Kenny Clonce; sisters-in-law, Brenda Clonce, and Kathleen Martin; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Neal Donald Clonce will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched with his warmth and genuine kindness. Rest in peace, Neal.
The family of Neal Donald Clonce received friends on Thursday, May 9, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY.
Funeral services for Neal Donald Clonce were held at 2:00 p.m., on Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY, where Reverend Preston Smith and Reverend Paul Clonce presided. Music was provided by Jody and Miranda Moore and Jimmy Barnes.
At the conclusion of the funeral service, family and friends traveled in procession to the Clonce Family Cemetery in Ewing, VA, where graveside services were held. Pallbearers will be Will Thomas, Caleb Clonce, Robert Clonce, Gary Clonce, Carlos Golden, and Troy Marsee.
In honor of Neal’s memory, after the graveside service, everyone was invited to a gathering at the Gibson Station Baptist Church.
Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.
All arrangements for Neal Donald Clonce are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.
