Berchal Lee McNeely Jr., born on Sept. 21, 1924, in Lancaster, South Carolina, passed away on Feb. 8, 2026 in Rockingham, North Carolina.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Berchal served as a medic during World War II, a commitment that earned him the Purple Heart with 2 oak leaf clusters and numerous other medals and ribbons. His dedication to service not only showcased his bravery but also reflected his generous spirit throughout his life.
After his military service, Berchal enjoyed a fulfilling career as a manager at Smith Auto in Cheraw for an impressive 30 years. He was known for his loving and kind personality, deeply respected by colleagues and friends alike. Education was important to him, having attended the University of South Carolina, and he remained dedicated to lifelong learning through his involvement in community activities.
Berchal is remembered as a cherished member of the Optimist Club and was an active participant in the Cameronian Presbyterian Church, EPC, where he taught Sunday school for over 50 years. His wisdom and leadership as an elder within the church left a lasting impact on his congregation. The church has the Berchal Lee McNeely Jr. Shcolarship for member students.
In his leisure time, Berchal found joy in his hobbies; he was a passionate supporter of the South Carolina Gamecocks and an avid sports fan. He enjoyed gardening and reading in his spare time.
He is survived by his loving family: son Richard McNeely (Ann); daughter Diane Shaw (Perry); grandchildren Beth Jacobson (Dubby High), Tracy Martin (John), Brooke White (Jason), Scott Outen and Mac Outen. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Ashely, Adam, Ricky, Tori, Jake, Grey, Haley, Lexi, Jeremy, Bailey, Kaleigh, Katie, Jenna and Karlee, along with a thriving lineage of great-great-grandchildren: Makinzie, Cullen, Weston, Savvy, Dakota, Noah, Eli, Kye, Monroe, Brently, Bryson, Everleigh, Jovani and two more on the way. He is further survived by his siblings, Kenneth, Eleanor and Travis.
Berchal was preceded in death by his father, Berchal Lee McNeely Sr. and mother, Blanch McCain McNeely; his loving wife, Frances McKenzie McNeely; granddaughters Lynn High and Jill Outen; and six brothers and sisters.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, from 10:45 until 11:45 a.m. at Cameronian Presbyterian Church, EPC. The funeral service will follow at noon, concluding with a burial with military honors at Northam Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Berchal Lee McNeely Scholarship fund at Cameronian Presbyterian Church, EPC at P.O. Box 458, Rockingham, NC 28380.
Online condolences can be made at carterfuneral.net.
