Remembering Joe Neal
”I’m saddened to hear of the passing of a Nevada giant, Joe Neal, our state’s first African American State Senator. He won’t be forgotten, and I know his legacy will be carried on admirably by his daughter, Dina Neal. Sending his family prayers and strength.”
Tweet from Rep. Susie Lee
“The 1st bill Sen Joe Neal championed & passed was a 1973 bill restoring the rights of felons. He said, ‘“I will never embarrass you, and I will do the right thing in terms of service to you and the community.” Your legacy continues! Thank you for paving the way! RIP Sen Neal.”
Tweet from Nevada State Assembly Speaker Jason Frierson
“Saddened to hear that Senator Joe Neal “The Westside Slugger” passed away late last night. It was an honor to have met him. He was a trailblazer and our state is all the smaller without him. Sending all our prayers to @senator_neal and the rest of his family during this hard time.”
Tweet from former Nevada State Assemblyman Stephen Silberkraus
“Joe Neal was a trailblazer who dedicated his life to fighting for Nevadans. His legacy will continue to inspire, and I send my deepest condolences to his children, friends, and family.”
Tweet from Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-nev.
“Saddened to hear about the passing of Senator Joe Neal, a legendary Nevada trailblazer and tireless advocate for justice and equality. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”
Tweet from Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-nev.
“Senator Joe Neal was an icon - a fierce principled leader with no fear. I remember meeting him at the law library & when I told him what I was working on, he suggested the case I should read. Incredible man. RIP Senator & strength to his family.”
Tweet from Barbara Buckley, attorney and former state assemblywoman
“Senator Joe Neal was an historic figure. He will be remembered as a trailblazer and a champion for working-class Nevadans. Our thoughts are with our friend and colleague, Senator Dina Neal, and the entire Neal family as we mourn his passing.”
Tweet from Nevada state Sen. Nicole Cannizzaro
”Incredibly saddened by the death of iconic Westside Slugger, Senator Joe
Neal. Not many have had as important and impactful legacy on our state then Senator Neal. We have truly lost a phenomenal leader in our community.”
Tweet from William Mccurdy II, former Nevada assemblyman
”So very sad to learn of Sen. Neal’s passing. He was a staunch advocate who was undaunted by naysayers and always spoke truth to power. May God bless his daughter, Senator Dina Neal, who will carry on his legacy, and may God bless the entire Neal Family.”
Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford
“He was certainly a civil rights champion, He was a role model on the Westside. Children will know his name … The state would have been much worse off if we hadn’t of had him fighting for the little guy and fighting for important changes.”
Rep. Dina Titus, D-nev.
“Senator Joe Neal will continue to be known as one of Nevada’s greatest legends, and his legacy will leave an indelible mark on our State. There is no doubt Nevada is a better place because of his fearless service. Kathy and I send our love and condolences to the Neal family – including his daughter, State Senator Dina Neal – and friends and we’ll keep them in our thoughts and prayers over the difficult days ahead.”
Tweet from Gov. Steve Sisolak