William Neal Shadden III

William Neal Shadden III, a cherished resident of Cartersville, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the age of 66. Born on March 24, 1960, in Smyrna, Georgia, Neal lived a full life devoted to his faith, family, and community.

A man of deep spiritual conviction, Neal was born again on December 11, 1986, which marked a turning point in his life. One week later, he embarked on a career as an announcer at the local Christian radio station WCCV. Over the years, he worked as an automotive mechanic, draftsman, retail salesman, and security associate at the Tellus Museum. Despite his diverse career, Neal’s true passion lay in his role as a Christian radio announcer, a position through which he spread his faith and touched many lives.

Neal’s educational journey began at Miss Marilu's Pink Kindergarten and continued through Cartersville Schools, where he graduated with honors in 1978. He furthered his education at Georgia Tech and Kennesaw College and completed a 2 year course with the Dominion Bible Institute in 2023. Neal was a lifelong learner and teacher, having taught adult classes and served on the Pastor's Council at various churches, including Towes Chapel/Global Harvest, East Calhoun Church of God, and Cartersville Church of God.

In 1988, Neal married the love of his life, Tina Tomlinson, with whom he shared an extraordinary 38-year marriage. Together, they participated in mission trips to Brazil and Haiti, sharing their compassion and faith with those in need. Neal was also deeply involved in his community, engaging in teaching, prayer, and jail visitation ministry. A man of varied talents, he played the trumpet and keyboard/piano, and he enjoyed motocross, motorcycle riding, skiing, and music.

Neal ventured into politics in 1992 as a Republican candidate for the Georgia State Senate in District 31, carrying a majority in Bartow County. Though he did not win the seat, his passion for conservative politics remained a lifelong interest.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Tina; his brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Dale; brother-in-law Tony Tomlinson; nephew Glenn S.; and nieces Cat, Meredith, and Jessica. He also leaves behind numerous close friends and Christian brothers and sisters. Neal was preceded in death by his father, W.N. Shadden Jr., and his mother, Miriam Shadden.

The family will receive friends at a visitation on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm at Parnick Jennings Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cartersville, GA. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm in the same location. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. Neal's pallbearers will be Steve Hickom, Dennis Romans, Gary Mauldin, Brad Wallace, Larry Gregory, Jason Woodside, and Jason Payne.

Arrangements are provided by Parnick Jennings Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Neal's unwavering dedication to his faith and community will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.