Emma McNeal, 88, peacefully entered eternal rest with the Lord on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones in the comfort of her home.

Born on November 22, 1936, in Florence, AL, Emma was the beloved daughter of Tommie Lee Brewis and Ada Harden. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Lou Evan Poole, AdaMae Farris, Dock Deberry, Mary Holmes, Sarah Jennings and great granddaughter: Kaiyleeh Keonna Morgan.

After graduating from Burrell Slater High School, Emma married Sterling Boddie and moved to Lima, OH. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Bonnie (Boddie) Morgan and Theresa (Boddie) Henry. She later found companionship and love with Willie McNeal.

Emma pursued her passion for cosmetology, graduating from Honey Cosmetology School in Dayton, OH. Her talent and dedication made her one of Lima's most respected hairstylists for many years. She also dedicated 37 years of service to St. Rita's before retiring.

Beyond her professional career, Emma was deeply involved in her community. She served as chairman of the Youth of Beauty for the National Ohio Association of Beauticians, held leadership roles in registration and nursing aid, and was president of the local Lima chapter. She faithfully served as a church usher at Tabernacle MBC and Providence MBC, demonstrating her dedication to her faith and community. Additionally, she played an active role in civic engagement as a voter poll worker, contributing to the democratic process with commitment and integrity.

Emma's warmth, dedication, and talent left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the community she served with love and grace.

She leaves to cherish her memories: her daughters, Bonnie Lou Morgan (Lawrence), Theresa Ann Henry (Dennis) goddaughter Michelle Butler (Arthur),  grandchildren: Jason Derell Morgan (Amy), Larry William Morgan III, Demetree Clifford Henry  great grandchildren: Tyanna Morgan, Jashawn Morgan, Lawrence Morgan IV, Brayden Morgan, Jada Robinson Henry,  Kallie Morgan, Kaidence Morgan, Kingston Morgan, A'Nyla Henry, and Ahnya Idell and a host of other relatives and friends.

Home Going Services will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2025  at 12:00 p.m. at Providence Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. A. L. Butler,  officiating.

Visitation/Wake will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025  at 10:00 a.m. until time of services also at the church.

Interment:  Woodlawn  Cemetery  in Lima.

Services entrusted to: JONES-CLARK FUNERAL HOME, INC.

To order flowers and to offer condolences to the McNeal Family, visit www.jonesclarkfuneralhome.com