Dr. Samuel Neal Trueblood | Eastern NC Now

Born: June 17, 1934, Died: November 06, 2013

    Dr. Neal Trueblood, age 79, died at home, 101 Justin Drive in Washington, NC on Nov. 6, 2013. A funeral service will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, Nov. 10th at St. Peter's Episcopal Church. Reverend Kevin Johnson will officiate and a reception will follow the service in All Saint's Hall.

    Neal was born in Washington, DC on June 17, 1934 to the late Julian Moore Trueblood and Thelma Leggett Trueblood. He married Jean Duke on July 8, 1959. He was a member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church and served for several years as Scoutmaster of Troop 702, which was church sponsored. He was also on the Board of Directors of St. Peter's Day School.

    Neal graduated from Washington High School, attended East Carolina College for his pre-dental courses and graduated from Dental School at UNC Chapel Hill as a Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1959. He accepted a position in the Oral Diagnosis Department at UNC Dental School. Neal served his country as a medical officer in the US Air Force and was stationed at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS for 3 years before returning to Washington where he practiced dentistry for 44 years before retiring in 2003.

    Professionally, Neal served his field at the local, district, state and national levels. He was a member of the Pamlico Dental Society, the NC Dental Society and the American Dental Society. He was recognized as a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and as served as secretary and treasurer of the NC Academy, later becoming its president.

    Neal served for 6 years as a member of the National Continuing Education Council and attained Life Membership in the ADA for years of dedication to organized dentistry and the dental profession. He was also a charter member of the Monte Miska Study Club. In retirement, he served as a Literacy Volunteer of Beaufort County.

    More endearing than his professional accomplishments, Neal gave graciously and was devoted to his family leaving a legacy including a love of God, a joy of family mealtime, a love of the sea, family vacations, a commitment to high moral standards... and quick wit. He loved cooking and his family and friends experienced a variety of cuisines dubbing him a Master Chef. His family was at his bedside as death approached and his rescue kitten, "Little Buddy," kept a steadfast vigil curled at his feet.

    Surviving him are his wife, Jean, a son, Phillip Frank Trueblood and his girlfriend Dee Lancaster and her daughter Courtney. Also surviving are his daughter, Jeannie Marsh Trueblood and her husband Wilbo Jones. Beloved grandchildren are Phil Jr., his wife Jessica as well as Will and Lila Jones. Great grandchildren are Braxton and Cassidy Trueblood. Surviving siblings are Minnie Sawyer and Laura Bell as well as several loving nephews and nieces. He especially loved his best friend, Dr. Billy Jackson (aka "Uncle Billy.")

    Deceased family members are a sister, Leggette Tripp, and a brother, Julian Trueblood.

    His family will receive friends at Paul Funeral Home on Saturday, Nov. 9th between the hours of 3 and 5 pm. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to send memorials are asked to consider the Building Fund of St. Peter's Episcopal Church, PO Box 985, Washington, NC or other charitable organizations. Honoring Neal's wishes, his pacemaker will be donated to the NC State School of Veterinary Medicine.

    Neal and his family received high quality care from Vidant Hospice of Greenville; specifically Gail Norris and Edith Jones. These wonderful ladies were so loving and compassionate and gave invaluable care and assistance during his illness. Richard Young, MD, was excellent as his primary physician and friend. The Reverend Kevin Johnson was his Rector, Spiritual Advisor and faithful friend. Visits from him and Deacon Katherine Nicholls were so appreciated and uplifting.

    Condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Trueblood family.