James Robert O'Neal, 73, of Bay City passed away September 30, 2018. He was born September 16, 1945 in Prattville, Alabama to the late Ray and Hazel Hunt O'Neal.  He served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War, receiving both the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.  He worked as an operator for Celanese before retiring.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister Brenda McLain.

Survivors include his wife Gina O'Neal; daughter Renetta Holmes (B. J.), sons Eric O'Neal (Nicole) and Declan O'Neal; step-sons Christian Bustamante (Eileen) and Patrick Bustamante; sisters Marlene Matherne (Nolan) and Carol Barker (John); brothers Donald O'Neal (Cheryl) and Nathan O'Neal (Annie) and grandchildren Madison O'Neal, Kennslee, Marlee, Brylee and Tyce Holmes, Christan Bustamante and Alena Bustamante.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5pm until 7pm Friday, October 5, 2018 at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Saturday, October 6, 2018 at the First Baptist Church with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers are Don O'Neal, Nathan O'Neal, Gerald Gros, Daniel McLain, Hunter O'Neal, Ricky O'Neal, Clint McLain, Cody McLain, Josh Barker and Jason Barker. Honorary pallbearers are Nolan Matherne, John Barker, Dennis Moore and Bo McLain.