Neal Westbrook
Glen Carbon | Save
Neal S. Westbrook, 82, of Glen Carbon, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026. Born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1943, in Alton, Neal was the beloved son of the late Robert E. and Viola A. (Woods) Westbrook.
A man defined by dedication, loyalty, and love of family, Neal proudly served his country both in the U.S. Army Reserves for six years and through a long and respected career with the U.S. Army Aviation & Troop Command, where he formed lifelong friendships and left a lasting impression on those who worked beside him.
Neal embraced life with warmth and enthusiasm. He loved traveling, cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, and creating lasting memories with the people he treasured most. Above all else, his family was the center of his world, and the time spent with them brought him his greatest happiness.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Diana Westbrook and Robert W. Westbrook.
Neal leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Gayla (Dickmann) Westbrook; his children, Stacey Martin and Steve Westbrook; stepdaughters, Vanessa Kalantzis and Lauren Briggs (Brett); his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his sister, Elaine Atchinson; sister-in-law, Nancy Winter (Glenn); brother-in-law, Fred Dickmann (Esther); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
A memorial visitation celebrating Neal’s life will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road, Glen Carbon, IL., with a memorial service beginning at 12:00 p.m. A private family burial will take place at a later date at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers and staff at Longevity Memory Care and Hospice of Southern Illinois for their kindness, support, and exceptional care.
Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Louis, MO or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Donations will be accepted at the funeral chapel.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
