Roger Kinte Neal was born on May 13, 1977, in Okeechobee, Florida, to the late Eddie James Neal, Sr. and the late Vinelle Jackson Neal. Roger was the youngest of six siblings and was known as “Number Six” of the Neal Nation Family. His mother envisioned him becoming an ordained pastor, recognizing the caring, compassionate, and giving spirit that was evident throughout his life. Roger would say “I’m gonna be a lil get down preacher”. Roger attended Okeechobee High School and proudly graduated in 1995. He later attended Avanti Hair Tech School, where he pursued his passion for barbering and became a Master Barber. Through hard work, dedication and determination, Roger transitioned from a Master Barber to the proud owner of his own barbershop, Barbers Extraordinaire. Over the years, Roger built an extensive and loyal clientele throughout the Tampa Bay community. His clients came to know, trust, respect, and confide in him. Roger provided much more than exceptional barbering services; he offered wisdom, encouragement, laughter, genuine support, and a wealth of knowledge to his clients and their families. His barbershop became a place where people felt welcomed, heard, valued, and cared for in presence. Roger had a heart for others and never forgot the people around him. He loved traveling with his wife and sons and enjoyed attending their games and practices. He proudly served as a team dad for both of his sons’ football teams and was deeply involved with the Copeland Park Saints, Tampa Hurricanes, and Uptown Eagles football organizations. Roger was committed to giving back to his community. He donated to back-to-school drives, provided football attire for children, and supported efforts to mentor and encourage the youth. His generosity, kindness, and willingness to serve left a lasting impression on countless lives. Roger was also known for his storytelling. He loved sharing entertaining stories from his childhood and early adulthood with his clients, friends, and family. His stories, humor, and unforgettable personality brought joy to those around him and made every moment in his company special. 

Roger leaves to cherish in his loving memory his devoted wife of 15 years, Dominque Neal; two beloved sons, Chaz Breon Neal and Roger Kinte Neal, Jr.; siblings, Margie Neal, Eddie Neal, Jr. (Sheila), Frankie Neal, Stephanie Simpson, Alfreda Hall, (Eric); surviving aunts, Alta Faye Blair, Lillie Hutcherson, Bernice Robinson, Delores Jackson and Gloria Jackson; uncle, Floyd Neal; mother-in-law, Janie Smith; brothers-in-law, Gerald Thomas and Charles Smith; and sister-in-law, Traveesica Harris. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, god-sisters, god-brothers, godchildren, cousins and friends. Roger will also be deeply missed by his loyal clients and by members of the Okeechobee and Tampa Bay communities who loved him and will forever cherish his memory. Roger’s legacy will live on through his family, his work, the relationships he built, the communities he served, and the countless lives he touched. His love, laughter, wisdom, generosity, and unforgettable presence will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.