Stephen Bothwell Neal

Stephen Bothwell Neal, 78, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of January 9 at Forest Springs Health Campus.

The youngest son of Floyd and Mildred Neal, Steve was born and raised in Martinsville, Ind. From those roots, he carried forward a lifelong commitment to fairness, hard work and looking out for others, values that defined both his family life and his remarkable career in public service.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Linda; his three children, Jamie (Kevin Hyde); Adam (Stacey); and Matt (Ashleigh); and six grandchildren — Eli, Xavier, Sophie, Dylan, Preston, and Hadley — who brought him immense pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Thomas Neal and John Neal.

After starting his career as an eighth-grade teacher, Steve devoted his professional life to advocating for teachers and public education. In April 1982, at just 35 years old, he was hired as executive director of the Jefferson County Teachers Association (JCTA). At the time, the organization faced significant challenges. Over the next 27 years, Steve’s leadership transformed JCTA into one of the National Education Association’s flagship local unions, widely regarded as a model for effective advocacy, political engagement and member service.

Under Steve’s guidance, JCTA became so respected that leaders from struggling urban locals across the country were sent to Louisville to learn from its success. Colleagues nationwide admired his unmatched political savvy, tireless commitment to members and courageous leadership. Just as notable was his personal approach: Steve was known for his attention to detail, relentless follow-through, folksy wit and his habit of going beyond what was asked to make sure members were truly supported.

Those who worked with him often remarked that Steve was one of a kind. As one colleague said at the time of his retirement in the summer of 2009, “When they made Steve, they threw away a golden mold.” While his accomplishments were many, Steve remained grounded, deeply loyal to the people he served, and proudest of the trust placed in him by educators throughout Jefferson County.

Above all else, Steve cherished his family and was a devoted Hubby, Dad and Pappy. His family remembers him for his enthusiasm for life, his humor, his generosity of spirit, and the loving openness he showed every day. “I love you; I’m proud of you” were his regular parting words to his kids and grandkids, so much so that his grandkids eventually tried to beat him to the words. He was also an unabashed liberal patriot, a “dangerous” golfer (windows and people were equally at risk), an avid reader of history, a stamp and coin collector, a staunch University of Louisville sports fan, and a bourbon lover — at one point amassing a world-class collection of bottles.

Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, please check back to this website for details. Steve Neal leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership and love that will be felt for generations. He will be greatly missed. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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