James Eugene McNeal, 76, of Jasper, passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2013, at his residence. James passed away at his home with his loved ones by his side and his faithful dog, Lexi, who has remained by his side. He was born on Feb. 4, 1937. James left his home place in Curry when he was 17 years old to seek a higher education and employment in Indiana. He attended Purdue University and retired from LTV Steel after 34 years of service. While in Indiana, James joined McKinley Masonic Lodge in Hammond, Ind. Upon retiring, his wish was to move back home to Alabama where he transferred his membership to the Lodge at Lamon Chapel #723 and was currently serving as Worshipful Master. In his travels thoughout his life, James met and became good friends with many people who he cherished. Many thanks go to Comfort Care Hospice of Jasper.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. today, March 3, 2013, at Collins-Burke Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 4, 2013, at Collins-Burke Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Hermon Baptist Cemetery in Jasper. The Rev. Wayne Williams will officiate.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry McNeal; mother, Julia Agnes Knight McNeal; sisters, Sarah Katherine Robinson (Carl) and Betty Joyce McNeal; and brothers, Grady McNeal and Lacy McNeal.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Judy Robison McNeal of Jasper; daughters, Elizabeth Jean Oglesby of Cantonement, Fla., Julie Kay Vest of Gulf Shores and Debra Ann Mcinnis (Mike) of St. John, Ind.; son, James Gene “Jim” McNeal of Birmingham; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and pet dog, that was faithful Lexi.

Pallbearers will be Mike E. McInnis, Jeremy Beamon, Scott Beamon, Gene Eggart, Mike Mcinnis, Jeremiah Beamon and Dakota Vest.