Neal

BURLESON - William J. “Bill” Neal, Jr., 95, a WWII veteran, was carried to the arms of Jesus on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2018.

A true example of the “greatest generation,” he sacrificed for his country, family and friends his entire life without a word. He was strong in character, kind, respected and admired. Love and faithfulness defined him.

Bill was born in Newsome, Oct. 11, 1923, to Ruby Lamb Neal and William J. Neal, Sr. He was the third of three children, the only son and known as “Honey Boy” to his dad. Because of his dad, the only depot agent for the railroad running through Newsome, Bill developed a love for trains that lasted throughout his lifetime. He also loved music and was part of a band growing up. Somewhere along the way, he also picked up photography, and would later drive his children crazy making them pose and wave for the camera on every possible occasion, but also leaving behind photographic treasures.

In 1943, at the age of 19, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps, serving in the South Pacific with the 390th Bombardment Squadron. He earned the rank of Corporal and was awarded a Silver Star and two Bronze Stars by the war’s end. After the war, Bill worked at Rick’s Funeral Home and attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. One day while he was eating in a local cafe, a beautiful young nurse walked in the door.

Survivors include his wife, Jerry; daughters, Teri and Cheryl; son-in-law, David Birdwell; grandchildren, Andrew Birdwell and Michele Birdwell, Ashley Frey and Josh Frey; great-grandchildren, Addison, Isaac and Caleb Frey and Parker Birdwell; dearest friend, Bill Barkley; and many others who love him, including devoted caregivers who have supported the family and cared for Bill and Jerry: Angela Wynn, Rebecca Laughlin, Connie Edwards, Bobby Shipman, James Colbert, Judi Kester, Robbie Sneed, Kimberly Rasor, and Margie Jackson.