JW became a member of First United Methodist Church of Cedar Hill at 12 years old and was a superintendent for 55 years. After the 8th grade he left school to go to work. He was a hard working man who never gave up and believed in doing everything to the best of his ability. After pursuing Lilly for quite some time they began to date and on April 14, 1951 they were married.
JW enjoyed working as a neon sign maker and blowing glass. He loved being able to work with the children in his church, riding motorcycles and his cars. He would trade his car out every 2 years. At the end of WWII he enlisted in the US Navy where he served proudly for a few years before joining the US Navy Reserve where he served 40 years. During that time he was also a member of Easter Stars since February 15, 1978, past Patron of Lonnie L Blake Lodge #1116, Lancaster Lodge #943, Ferris Lodge #508 and past Master with Ferris Masonic Lodge #460.
He was an outgoing character who loved everyone and was loved by everyone. A humble, fine outstanding man who enjoyed yoga in the later years and lived life to the fullest. A true fighter he came back from almost every illness. Many would say his love and strength came through his devout faith and love for his Lord.
JW is survived by; brother Jimmy O'Neal and his wife, Becky, Von O'Neal and his wife, Mary, sister Shirley Forrest and her husband, Randal; sister-in-law Esther O'Neal; niece: Judy Crowley, Myra Land, Debra Boyle, Susie Sanchez, Jacinda Stevick, Jackie Lemons, Janice Linch, Ginger Wall; nephews: Alvin Taylor, Ronnie O'Neal, Steve Forrest, Larry Forrest, David Forrest, Kevin O'Neal, Thomas Jones.
JW was preceded in death by his wife Lilly O'Neal; mother Cora Lee Holveck O'Neal, father James Lee O'Neal, brother Gerald O'Neal and sister Bernice Brewton; niece Anethia Brewton, niece Linda Brewton, and niece Dottie Brewton.
Visitation for J will be held Friday, November 23, 2018 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bean-Massey-Burge Funeral Home Beltline Road, 2951 S. Belt Line Road, Grand Prairie, TX 75052. A funeral service will occur Saturday, November 24, 2018 at 10:00 AM at First United Methodist Church of Cedar Hill, 128 North Roberts Road, Cedar Hill, TX 75104. A graveside service will occur Monday, November 26, 2018 at 10:15 AM at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mt. Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.beanmasseyburge.com for the O'Neal family.
