Ralph Orland McNeal Jr.

Ralph “Tiny” Orland McNeal Jr., 81, of Easton Maryland, passed away on February 11, 2026. Ralph was born September 30, 1944, in Easton, MD, the son of Ralph Orland McNeal, Sr. and Pearl Cappa McNeal. He grew up in Talbot County with his three siblings, Catherine Faulkner, Daniel McNeal, and Pam Grudis, and was a graduate of Easton High School. Following graduation, Ralph began his working life as a mechanic at T. Earl Ewing John Deere. He then went onto a long career at Elliott’s Equipment as a trusted mechanic and later pursued his lifelong passion as a farmer — a calling he followed until his passing. He loved the land, taking pride in his crops and the daily rhythms of farm life. Ralph had a gentle, steady nature and a fondness for simple pleasures. He treasured time spent with his special pets, most recently his cat “Baby Girl.” He enjoyed riding with his wife, Darlene, to check on his crops and was a big fan of old Westerns. Tiny and Darlene’s love story is one she loves to tell. They first met at a Cambridge roller rink 60 years ago, lost touch for a time and then reconnected in 2005. Their lives finally came together, and they were married on June 10, 2006. They often called their union a “marriage made in Heaven”. He returned to her at a time she most needed him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene McNeal; sister Pam Grudis; niece Kellie Faulkner; nephews Craig McNeal and David McNeal; great nieces Samantha Towers and Taylor McNeal; great nephews Tristan McNeal and Jordan McNeal; and dear friends Henry Hollingsworth, Paul Garrett, Robert Garrett, Stanley and Faye Collier, and Bobby Greenley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Sr. and Pearl McNeal, and siblings Daniel McNeal and Catherine Faulkner. A memorial visitation to celebrate Ralph “Tiny” McNeal’s life will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home, Easton, MD. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Talbot Humane Society, Easton, MD, in Ralph’s memory. The family wishes to thank friends and neighbors who brought comfort and companionship through the years. He will be remembered for his hardworking hands, kind spirit, and the quiet joy he found in caring for his land and loved ones.

Ralph Orland McNeal Jr.

September 30, 1944 - February 11, 2026