© DeArman Funeral Home

Henry James Neal, 77, of Tishomingo, Oklahoma, passed away on February 2, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Henry was born on June 14, 1948, in Mena, Arkansas, to James Henry Neal and Gladys Angeline (Grant) Neal. He graduated from Durant High School in 1967 and soon after answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. Henry served three years in the Marines, including 13 months in Vietnam as an artilleryman from May 1968 to June 1969. During his time in Vietnam, he earned the nickname “Digger,” a testament to his skill and reputation for digging the best foxholes. His service in Vietnam was a source of great pride to him throughout his life. Following his active-duty service, Henry continued his dedication to his country by serving 20 years in the National Guard, from which he retired with the rank of Staff Sergeant. In his free time, Henry enjoyed fishing, making walking sticks, and watching John Wayne movies. He had a deep love for horses and longhorn cattle, and at one time was a small rancher. Above all, Henry loved his family. While he was proud of his military service, family meant everything to him.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, James and Gladys Neal, and his brother-in-law, Milton Teafatiller.

Those left to cherish his memory include his sister, Sharon Teafatiller of Tishomingo; nephew, James Teafatiller of Durant; great-nephews, Alix Teafatiller of Durant and Chaz Teafatiller of Pratt, Kansas; great-niece, Tessa Willeby of Mead; along with a host of cousins and friends.

A family hour will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at DeArman-Clark Funeral Home.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Seaman First Class Billy Turner Veterans Cemetery in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Arrangements are under the direction and care of DeArman-Clark Funeral Home, Tishomingo, Oklahoma.