August 3, 1945 – February 19, 2025

Carolann Neal was born on August 3, 1945, in Kingstree, South Carolina, to Marie and Ivory Epps., she was the eldest of twelve children. She ascended to heaven on February 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and love. Carolann was a devoted woman of faith who lived by the words of Matthew 6:33—seeking God first in all that she did. She loved serving and studying God’s Word, starting every morning in prayer at 6 AM. As a pillar of her church, she was always willing to serve in any capacity needed, making a significant impact through her commitment and unwavering faith.

She embodied the virtues of a selfless woman, always helping those in need. Whether through her faithful tithing, acts of kindness, or sharing words of encouragement, Carolann lived her life for the sake of others. Those who knew her often said she would "give and give and forget that she gave. Carolann married Bobby Neal, who was born on May 5, 1936, in Talbot County, Georgia. They were married on July 26, 1974, in Great Neck, New York, where they had four children: Tara Denise Taylor, Angela Redding, Sebastian Neal, and Tiffanie Gaines. Bobby Neal passed away on July 31, 2009.

Beyond her church, Carolann dedicated 29 years of service as a nurse at Grady Memorial Hospital. She was well known for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to both her patients and colleagues. Always seen smiling, she brought warmth and comfort to those around her. Carolann was a role model for the staff, known for her positive attitude and soothing demeanor. She developed new patient education groups on Health and Wellness, which continue to this day, and was the go-to for training Emory University School of Nursing students and interns. After retiring from Grady Memorial Hospital as an LPN on May 12, 2007, her unwavering passion for serving others led her to Hillside. There, she made a profound impact on the youth and their families, specializing in behavioral health and helping them navigate through challenges. Her dedication and compassion touched many lives, leaving a lasting legacy of care and support.

Carolann was a cherished member of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church for over three decades. Throughout her journey with New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, she was immersed in various ministries that brought her joy and fulfillment. Her melodious voice graced the choir for many years, and she took particular pride in being part of the Total Praise Choir. In her later years, she found purpose and community within the Women of Wisdom ministry, where her unwavering dedication, generous tithing, and heartfelt service were recognized and celebrated during pastor-initiated events. The New Birth Missionary Baptist Church community was not just a congregation to her; it was an extended family that she held close to her heart.

Every Saturday, Carolann distributed food boxes to families in her neighborhood and surrounding community, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to serving the lord and helping others. 

Carolann leaves behind her children: Tara Taylor (Daughter) & Andrew Taylor (Son-in-Law), Angela Redding (Daughter), Sebastian Neal (Son), Tiffanie Renee Gaines (Daughter) & Clifford Edward Gaines (Son-in-Law); her siblings: Nerthia Tisdale (Sister), Huey Epps (Brother), Sylvia Diane Tisdale (Sister), Janette Dukes (Sister), Van Epps (Brother), and Victor Epps (Brother); and her grandchildren: Na’Sheka Gabrielle Smith & Demetrius Lee Smith, Morgan Elainer Lee & Joseph Lee, Na’John June Dukes, John Lee Dukes III, Sebian McFalls-Neal, Madisyn McFalls-Neal, Dominique Neal, Adonis Neal, Clifton Edward Gaines II, Caleb Fitzgerald Gaines, MichealAnthony Lee Smith, Ava Gabrielle Smith, Alexander Carter Smith, Brooklyn McFalls-Neal, Kyair Neal, Kamoree Neal, and Zyaire Neal.

Carolann Neal’s life was a testament to her faith, love, and dedication to serving others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those she touched.

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