Margaret Ellen Neal, 86, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away on October 10, 2025. The family will host a Celebration of Life on Monday, November 17, 2025 at Blue Ridge Presbyterian Church located at 6429 Blue Ridge Boulevard, Raytown, Missouri 64133. Family will receive guests from 5pm with service beginning at 6pm.
Margaret was born on May 26, 1939 in Rochester, NY to Rev. Dr. Garner Scott Odell and Mary Ruth Odell (Clemens). Margaret graduated from Missouri Valley College with her Bachelor’s degree in Special Education. On June 26th, 1965 Margaret married Gordon Neal. Together they enjoyed 59 years of marriage. During those years, they were inseparable. Together they dedicated many years of service to the Kansas City Golden Gloves. Margaret was a timekeeper and designated “mom” to many of the amateur boxers while traveling across the US to various tournaments. One year, at the National Golden Gloves tournament in Las Vegas Margaret and Gorden were extras in the movie Black Cloud, directed by Rick Shroder. Life also allowed Gordon and Margaret to became successful business owners of Neal’s Gallery and Frame shop located in Kansas City, Missouri. However, their proudest titles they held were “Mom” and “Dad” to their daughters Cindy and Peggy. As a family, they frequently traveled and cherished spending time together.
Margart was also a talented seamstress and knitter. Each stitch crafted with love, she made matching dresses for daughters growing up, prom dresses, and even wedding dresses. Her love for sewing didn’t stop there– she also would make matching pajamas for the grandkids and great grandkids, as well as teddy bears with matching pajamas and clothes for special occasions. Her talent was recognized one year receiving first place at the Missouri State Fair for one of her handcrafted wedding gowns.
Along with her love for sewing, she also loved to bake and decorate cakes for all occasions. She was also an avid Royals fan and loved to cheer on her boys in blue! Go Royals!
Margaret’s survivors include her daughters Cindy Neal and Peggy McCarty (Mike); 5 grandchildren Keara Torkelson (Joe), Dustin Bono (Jessi), Grace McCarty, Emily McCarty, and Logan McCarty; 11 great-grandchildren; as well as her beloved cat Blossom and grandcat Peaches! She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Rev. Garner S. Odell and love of her life Gordon Neal. Her family finds peace knowing Gordon now has ice for his cup! Together, they are now enjoying eternity while watching over their family they love so dearly.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64029