James "Jimmy" Neal

James "Jimmy" Neal, precious husband, Daddy and "Pop Pop", age 86, of Benton, formerly of Russellville, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 22, 2011, at the Saline Memorial Hospice House in Bryant. He was born December 5, 1924 in Russellville, to Homer Grady and Mary Ola Wilson Neal. He truly embodied the character of Christ: gentle, loving, humble, strong, and forgiving. He was a man of honesty and integrity, a hard worker, and a man whose greatest joy was his family. He was a member of the Benton/Bryant Cumberland Presbyterian Fellowship. He was a United States Navy veteran of World War II, where he served on the submarine, The USS Tigrone, and was an employee of Colonial Baking Company for 38 years. He had a beautiful bass voice and enjoyed calling square dances for many years. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Jimmy Ray Neal; and a sister, Deanie Butler. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Polly Neal; three daughters and sons-in-law, Pat and Rodney Hallsell of Lewisville, Texas, Debby and Gary Curtis of Hot Springs Village, and Teresa and Ross Barron of Maumelle; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The graveside service and burial will be at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Pine Crest Memorial Park in Alexander, officiated by Bro. Dwight "Skip" Shanley. Arrangements are by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. In appreciation for the loving care by the staff and volunteers, the family requests memorials be made to Saline Memorial Hospice House, 23157 Interstate 30, Bryant, Ark. 72202. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com.