Cornelius Neal Green Sr.

March 17, 1952 – August 19, 2026

Cornelius Neal Green Sr., affectionately known as “Neal” to his family, was a good man. Those simple words perhaps describe him better than any others. He loved his family fiercely, was a loyal and selfless friend, and loved God, striving each day to live his life according to his faith.

Neal lived a life that defied what circumstances might have predicted for him during his early years. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, he witnessed inequity and hardship firsthand. Yet he was blessed with a devoted mother, Louise, who worked tirelessly to raise him to become a man of character, strength, and integrity, determined that his environment would not define his future.

Neal married at a young age and made the decision to enlist in the United States Army to provide for his wife, Sharon (née James), and their young sons, Cornelius and Quincy. Although their marriage eventually ended, Neal and Sharon remained connected through the sons they shared.

Neal continued his military career in the Army, where he particularly enjoyed his time serving as a Drill Sergeant. It was a role well suited to his strength, discipline, determination, and commanding presence.

In 1988, Neal married Rumi (née Nielson). After 15 years of military service, he made the decision to take early retirement from the Army to support Rumi's military career. In time, they joyfully welcomed their daughter, Reiko, into their family.

As an Army spouse, Neal embraced the important responsibility of providing a stable and loving home for Reiko while Rumi fulfilled the demands of her military career, including numerous deployments. Through the challenges of military life, Neal remained a steadfast presence for his family. Together, Neal and Rumi navigated 13 moves before eventually retiring to Freeport, Florida, where they made their home.

Neal was a truly multifaceted man, possessing both a warm heart and a formidable presence. For those he loved, he had a huge, infectious smile that could light up a room. For those he distrusted, he could display a fierce and intimidating demeanor. He was deeply loved by his family and friends, while strangers sometimes found his commanding presence rather fearsome.

A man of remarkable athletic ability and varied interests, Neal became a skilled, multidisciplined martial artist long before mixed martial arts became a recognized sport. He even competed in semi-professional kickboxing. He was also an expert horseman and an adventurous skier who especially enjoyed the challenge of black diamond runs.

His interests extended well beyond martial arts and outdoor adventure. Neal enjoyed playing tennis and chess, lifting weights, and watching sports of every kind. Whether testing his physical strength, sharpening his mind, or simply enjoying a good competition, he approached life with enthusiasm and determination.

Yet, above all his accomplishments and interests, Neal cherished his role as a family man.

Some of his greatest joys were found in life's simplest moments: surprising his mother with unexpected visits, teasing and joking with his little sister, spending time with his brothers and cousins, and raising his children. Family was the foundation of his life, and his love for those closest to him remained unwavering.

In 2018, Neal was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, a devastating and challenging disease. He faced the difficult years that followed with extraordinary dignity and courage. Though the illness brought profound hardships, it could never diminish the love he had given his family or the lasting impact he made upon their lives.

On August 19, 2026, Neal passed away peacefully in the arms of his beloved wife, Rumi, surrounded by the family he treasured so dearly.

Neal leaves behind his loving wife, Rumi; his children, Cornelius (Carine), Quincy, and Reiko Lister (Nicholas); his mother, Louise Parker; and his sister, Cotillion Jasper (Darren). He is also survived by eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one niece, three nephews, and dozens of cousins, all of whom carry cherished memories of his life and love.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Herman Parker and William Parker.

Cornelius Neal Green Sr. is laid to rest at Barrancas National Cemetery, Naval Air Station Pensacola, Pensacola, Florida, in recognition of his honorable service to our nation.

Neal's life was one of strength, perseverance, loyalty, faith, and, above all, love for his family. While his presence will be deeply missed, the example he set and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He was a good man. And in the end, that says everything.