Tributes for founder of Paradise Mazda Reginald Neale after his death
A prominent Adelaide car dealer was laid to rest in a funeral service on Monday, and has been remembered for his impact in the local community.
SA News
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The founder of one of Adelaide’s biggest car dealerships has passed away and remembered for his contribution to the Campelltown community.
Paradise Mazda founder Reginald Neale passed away peacefully at Royal Adelaide Hospital on Saturday, August 5.
The business confirmed his death in statement posted to social media, on August 7, with family, friends and members of the community honouring his life in a funeral service on Monday.
Born in Athelstone, the 88-year-old established the well-known Paradise Mazda dealership in 1956, which first began as Paradise Motors.
Mr Neale was married to his late wife Shirley, and will be now be remembered by his two sons Jeff and Michael, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Paradise Mazda said the Neale family were “extremely grateful for the outpouring of condolences and messages of love,” from loved ones following Mr Neale death.
“Among the sadness, we have peace in our hearts knowing that Reg is reunited with his beloved late wife Shirley and he can finally be at rest,” they wrote in the statement.
“Reg, thank you for building a wonderful local family business where many have been able to experience what it is like to be part of a supportive community.
“Your memory will continue to live on through the actions of all that work at Paradise Motors.
“You are now at peace, we will take it from here and keep the motor running.”
Mr Neale’s son Jeff was appointed as the dealer principal, while his grandson Ben, became the general manager.
Campbelltown Mayor Jill Whittaker remembered Mr Neale for his contribution to the community and philanthropy outside his successful dealership.
“One of the most significant moments of the service was the revelation that both he and Shirley had each secretly donated thousands of dollars to support women who were escaping domestic violence via the church where they were faithful members,” Mayor Whittaker wrote.
“Thank you for your life of service to your community.”
Mr Neale was the last charter member of the Rotary Club of Campelltown (RCC), with the club remembering him as “its backbone” since its establishment on November 1, 1965.
“We love him and we will miss him,” RCC wrote in the statement.
“Thank you Reg for all that you have done for us. We are so grateful for the leadership, advice and sponsorship you have given us at Campbelltown.
“Our heartfelt sympathy to all the Neale family.”
Deputy Leader of SA Liberal Party and Member for Morialta MP John Gardner, also paid a heartwarming tribute to the “well known and highly regarded” Mr Neale, on Tuesday.
“Reg will be fondly remembered by staff, customers, fellow Rotarians, and thousands of members of clubs and charitable organisations he supported along with the Paradise Mazda team,” MP Gardner wrote.
“Most of all Reg will be missed by his loving family. Rest in peace.”
Mr Neale received the Campbelltown Citizen of the Year in 1991, from the Campbelltown Council for his contribution to the broader community.
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