Evelyn Marie McNeal

Evelyn Marie McNeal, 75, of Canadian stepped into the arms of Jesus on Monday, August 18, 2025, in Waco surrounded by her loving family.

Services will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the River Ministries Church with Daylon Kirkland and Pastor Donald Hill, officiating. Burial will follow at Edith Ford Memorial Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors of Canadian.

Evelyn Marie Gillispie McNeal was born September 4, 1949, in Shamrock to Marvin B. and Susie Anderson Gillispie. Evelyn lived a life full of love, creativity, and generosity. She was happiest when surrounded by her family, who were always at the center of her heart. A devoted wife to her husband James McNeal and a proud mother of five; Ray, Dee, Mechelle, Johnny, and Richard. Evelyn poured her energy and love into raising her family and building a home filled with warmth.

A natural creator, Evelyn loved making and building things, crafting of all kinds, and bringing her ideas to life. She also had a gift for finding bargains and the thrill of a good deal, a joy she shared with those she loved. Evelyn was adventurous at heart and especially loved traveling on cruises, where she made lasting memories. At home her beloved dogs were always by her side, offering comfort and companionship. Evelyn also built and grew her store, a reflection of her hard work, creativity and determination. What truly defined Evelyn was her kind and giving heart. She never hesitated to help anyone in need and gave selflessly to others without expecting anything in return. Whether it was family, friends or strangers, Evelyn’s compassion touched countless lives and left an imprint of love and generosity that will never be forgotten.

Evelyn will be remembered as a woman of strength, kindness and creativity ~ a wife, mother, and friend whose legacy will live on through the love she gave so freely.

Evelyn was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Marvin & Susie Gillispie.

Those left to cherish Evelyn’s memory are her husband, James McNeal; children, Marvin Ray Kirkland of Canadian, Mechelle Kirkland of Odessa, Deanna Vines of Marquez, Johnny Kirkland of Deshler, NE, and Richard Pingree of Houston; grandkids: Ronnie Blevins of Corpus Christi, Tiffani Kirkland of Canadian, Aliesha McManus of Wheeler, Jeanie Blevins of Amarillo, Dakota James of Decatur, AL, Hunter Kirkland of Amarillo, Dustin Kirkland of Austin, Adam Wilson of Claremore, OK, Nick Wilson of Claremore, OK, Jonathan Wilson of Claremore, OK, Corey Kirkland of Deshler, NE, Kylie Kirkland of Deshler NE, and RJ Medley of Shawnee, OK; 59 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.