Richard "Dick" Nawn Neal

Richard “Dick” Nawn Neal, 81, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on June 22, 2025.

Born in Austin, Texas, on May 28, 1944, Dick was the eldest of two sons. While his father served overseas in World War II—eventually participating in the liberation of Nazi concentration camps—Dick lived in La Porte, TX with his family. They later settled in Houston, TX, upon his father's return, where he grew up.

Dick graduated from Lamar High School in 1962. He met the love of his life, Carolyn, in kindergarten, and they began dating at 16. Despite their parents' initial objections, Dick and Carolyn married in Austin on May 29, 1965—just one day after Dick turned 21—while attending the University of Texas. Their story is one of true love and steadfast devotion, and they recently celebrated 60 years of marriage, setting a powerful example of commitment for their three children and seven grandchildren.

Dick earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in 1966 from the University of Texas, where he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law in 1970 and was a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. That same year, he passed the New Mexico Bar.

His career in banking spanned four decades and six locations. He began at Bank of the Southwest in 1966, followed by positions at First National Bank of Santa Fe, El Paso National Bank, Brownsville National Bank, Bank of Greenway in Houston, and First National Bank of Brenham. A brief chapter in Waco at Bank One preceded his final professional role as CFO for Texas Aromatics in Houston. Dick officially retired in 2008, returning to Brenham, where he and Carolyn had maintained a home throughout.

Even in retirement, Dick remained committed to lifelong learning and service. In 2010, he became a Certified Financial Planner and opened a branch of Index Fund Advisors, working until 2019. He was actively involved in his community as a member of the Brenham Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Brenham, and Treasurer of the Chappell Hill Methodist Church Council. He also served as Treasurer of the Washington County Heritage Society and the Lake Travis Estates HOA.

Dick’s dedication to heritage and service was reflected in his membership in the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Sons of the American Revolution. A proud Eagle Scout, he carried his passion for Scouting into adulthood, serving as Scoutmaster for his two sons and later volunteering for his grandson’s troop. His love for the outdoors and mentorship led him on multiple two-week expeditions to Philmont Scout Ranch with his sons and grandson.

Dick was an adventurer at heart. He and Carolyn shared a love of scuba diving and traveled around the world many times together. He enjoyed hunting, cruising, and RVing experiences he often shared with his children and grandchildren. One of his most memorable adventures came on his third 7-day rafting trip through the Grand Canyon with family, a journey filled with laughter and legendary stories, including the oft-repeated family quote, “Everybody grab something,” as he navigated the canyon walls at age 72.

A man who valued tradition and togetherness, Dick relished family gatherings: “Lake Weekend” at Lake Texoma (still going strong after 22 years), holidays, and milestone celebrations. He adored his seven grandchildren and made each of them feel treasured and deeply loved.

A passionate student of WWII history, Dick traced the route of the Battle of the Bulge, following in the footsteps of his father across Europe. No cemetery or battlefield was overlooked during his travels—he honored every stop with quiet reflection and respect.

Dick also cherished his weekly coffee group and “lunch bunch,” occasionally bringing along a visiting grandson to share in the fellowship. He loved hunting, fishing, shooting, and swapping stories with dear friends, always with a twinkle in the eye, sense of humor, and a full heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Seth Ward Neal and Dixie Louise Alexander Neal, and his brother, Dr. Thomas Ward Neal. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn; son Charles (Celia) Neal of Baytown; son Robert (Laura) Neal of Frisco; daughter Dana (Ben) Hext of Montgomery; and grandchildren Theodore Neal, Nathan (Faith) Neal, Victoria Neal, Elizabeth Neal, Neal Hext, Ella Hext, and William Hext.

Richard’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and family. His impact is immeasurable—his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. A man of deep faith, Dick loved Brenham, his church, and his community. He leaves behind a rich legacy of devotion, laughter, and a lifetime of stories. He will be deeply missed, but we rejoice in knowing he has received his eternal reward through his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 27, at Brenham Memorial Chapel from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m., with family present from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. A private burial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Chappell Hill Methodist Church or the Heritage Society of Washington County—dear to Dick’s heart.

Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, Texas 77833. 979.836.3611. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com