Services Held For Tampa Police Bike Squad Veteran, Young Father Who Died Of Brain Cancer

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — Close friends and fellow law enforcement officers gathered for funeral services for Tampa Police Officer Matthew David McNeal of Wesley Chapel on Tuesday at the Bridgeway Church, 30660 Wells Road, Wesley Chapel.

McNeal, a veteran of the Tampa police bike squad, died of brain cancer Jan. 2 at the age of 34.

Born in Tampa to Gary and Lynn McNeal on Feb. 7, 1987, McNeal attended and graduated from Temple Heights Christian School in Tampa, where he met his wife, Mandy.

While in school, McNeal excelled at sports, particularly football, as well as basketball and baseball. After high school, he went on to study at Hillsborough Community College where he received an associate of arts degree. He then worked as a corrections officer at the Orient Road Jail for the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

Five years later in 2014, he was hired as a patrol officer and a full-time member of the Tampa Police Department Bicycle Operations and Response Team where he worked for 7 1/2 years. During that time, McNeal received a number of honors including two Life Saving Awards.

In his spare time, McNeal loved spending time with his children, Madison, age 9, and Elias, age 7, was an avid Cross Fit enthusiast and enjoyed listening to worship music.

"I’m so thankful for Matt’s friendship over the years," said longtime friend Robert O'Neil Saturday. "His encouragement and faith during college and over the last couple years has forever changed my life. Last time I saw him we joked about how all the times we hung out, this was the only picture I had of us."

"Matt excelled during our academy, especially at everything physical," said Billy Davis, who was in McNeal's class at the police academy. "A lot of people use that advantage to distinguish themselves from the rest of the group in the eyes of their cadre or peers. Our unit, however, was a solid team and family. We all pushed each other and cared for each other. This is where Matt distinguished himself. Matt found every opportunity he could to elevate those around him, and to encourage them to do their best. This was especially impressive considering Matt did not hold any formal leadership position within the class. Matt didn't need anyone to entrust him with this; he naturally assumed the role and I believe saw it as his responsibility to lift up others. One might attribute this to his Christian upbringing, but beyond that, I think it also spoke to the core values of his character."

Davis said McNeal continued that role even while battling brain cancer.

"It is hard to rationalize or accept this loss, but as in his life, Matt has also found a way to encourage others in death. He has done this with the display of strength, courage, humility and faith that he showcased during his battle with cancer," Davis said. "Matt, you will always hold a special place in the hearts of your brothers and sisters in this picture, as I know you will with everyone who knew you. I send my condolences to your family, and to your brothers and sisters at the Tampa Police Department. I know they will honor your legacy. We love you, Matt. God bless you, my brother."

McNeal is preceded in death by his parents, wife and children, his paternal grandfather David McNeal Sr. and maternal grandparents John and Thelma Hollister, sisters Melissa Cock (Ben) and Lindsay Green (Ethan) as well as many other family members.

Pallbearers were the Tampa Police Department Honor Guard.

Final Honors were held immediately following the funeral service.

Blount & Curry Funeral Home-Carrollwood is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Supporters of Law Enforcement or the Tampa Police Benevolent Association, attention Matthew McNeal.

Click here to see a photo album documenting McNeal's life and to share a memory or note of sympathy to the family.