RJ Neal, A Hero Big and Small

RJ Neal, Our Hero Big and Small

Our community has lost one of its own with the passing of Renard “RJ” Neal on Friday, February 21, 2025 at his home in Atlanta. He was 34. RJ was born in Neptune, New Jersey, and moved to Boynton Beach, Florida at the age of 1. Long time residents of south Florida may remember him as a talented Little League baseball outfielder who helped East Boynton Beach win their way to the Little League World Series in 2003. In Williamsport, Pennsylvania, the team went on to with the US Championship. He continued to excel in baseball at Park Vista High School, missing his graduation as the team had won Regionals and moved on to State final on his graduation day. From Florida, RJ played baseball at the University of South Carolina – Beaufort, and went to the 2012 NAIA College World Series. Following his baseball career, RJ found his passion as a firefighter, and for the last several years has been working in Stations 1, 2 and 3 for the College Park Fire Department - a hidden gem in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia, where he has been a much-loved member of the department. RJ is survived by his parents, Gina and Robert Melchionna, and Renard and Kristal Neal; his siblings Chelsea, Robert, Enzo, Nicholas, Treana and Jayson; nephews Trey and Caisyn and niece Elaya; and his girlfriend Marisa Remy. He will always be remembered for loving his family, friends, teammates, and firefighter “Family”, as well as his faith. We are asking anyone who would like to contribute to help offset these unexpected expenses to please donate on this Go Fund Me site. Services will be hosted by the College Park, Georgia Fire Department in College Park on March 8 and 9, 2025 in his honor. Upon RJ’s return home to Florida, a memorial will be held on March 15, 2025 at 10 a.m. May he rest in peace.