William Neal Batson

William “Neal” Batson,73, of Landrum passed away Friday, August 16, 2024 after a long and courageous battle with cancer with his family by his side. Born in Washington, DC, he was the eldest son of the late William “Ralph” and Margaret Ward Batson. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sallie Batson. Three daughters: Jessica Rainey (Josh), Margaret Hullett (Thomas), and Sarah Rives Biscotto (Joey); two stepdaughters that he loved as his own: Crystal Stine and Shalon Craine (Kenny); one granddaughter that he raised and loved as a daughter: Olivia Johnson (Taylor); seventeen grandchildren and one great grandchild. He is also survived by two brothers: David Batson (Jehalia) and Danny Batson (Cindy); and one sister: Tanya Batson. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by one brother, Gary Batson; and grandparents W.A. and Flora Batson and Tolvin and Susie Ward. Unquestionably Neal's favorite thing to do was to spend time with his grandchildren. With 19 grands/great grands, he was able to enjoy time with them often and made many wonderful memories with them. He was a devoted husband and father and loved his family fiercely. Other than his family, one of Neal’s greatest ministries has been his store, Bargains Food Store. Over the many years he worked in the grocery business his colleagues and employees have become more like family and those relationships held a special place in his heart. Most days through the week you could find him working at the store even up until the very end of his valiant fight with cancer. He was the strongest and hardest working man we’ve ever known, but he always had time to talk, listen and make you feel cared for and special, especially if you were lucky enough to earn a nickname. Quiet and reserved, steadfast and strong, always freely giving of himself, his time and resources without expectations for it to be returned. Neal was a loyal member of Ebenezer Welcome Baptist Church in Landrum. He faithfully attended the Senior Men’s Sunday school class, helped with the preschool class and AWANAs on Sunday evenings and was actively involved with the Men at the Barn ministry. He lived his life with intentionality and purpose and loved to share the Gospel and tell of the love of Christ. His years of service in the grocery business afforded him the ability to bless many people locally through his continuous contributions to several upstate food banks and nonprofits. We prayed for a miracle for many years and even though this isn’t the miracle we wanted, we rest on knowing that Neal has received the ultimate miracle of healing through our Savior Jesus Christ. The family will receive friends Tuesday, August 20th, from 12:30-2pm at Ebenezer Welcome Baptist Church. Funeral services will be 2:00pm at Ebenezer Baptist Church with burial to follow at the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Ebenezer Welcome Baptist Church, 4005 SC-414, Landrum,SC 29356. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude and thankfulness for the care that Neal has received from Dr Joe Stephenson and his team at the Greenville Cancer Institute over the past several years, as well as VIA Health Partners for the loving care they have shown him over the past few months. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.thehowzemortuary.com The Howze Mortuary, Travelers Rest, is in charge of arrangements. (864)834-8051

William Neal Batson

November 5, 1950 - August 16, 2024