James W. O'Neal, Jr.

James W. O'Neal, Jr. has died at the age of 79. Mr. O'Neal was born and raised in Jackson, GA. He was the first born son of J.W. O'Neal, Sr. and Florrie Elizabeth Allen both of whom predeceased him. "Byrd, Jr." as he was affectionately known graduated from Mercer University in 1959, where he was a member of Phi Delta fraternity. He taught himself to play saxophone and during his days as a college student played in a local band, "The Shieks", which was one of his favorite pastimes. He and the other band members continued to get together for jam sessions until age and health interfered. He was a successful Real Estate salesman for Thornton Realty Co. and later Fickling and Walker where he was often a member of the Million Dollar Roundtable. Most of his life was spent in Macon, GA. He loved golf, fishing, music and hunting. He is survived by a brother, Dennis Allen O'Neal (Sandra) of Peachtree City, GA; Four children: Shawn Wouters (Brent) of Atlanta, Sheila Freeman (Bill) of Warner Robins, James W. O'Neal III of Macon, Suzanne Maiorana (Nicholas) of Macon, and eight grandchildren. Memorial services will be held on Friday, April 19, 2013 at 4:00PM in the Chapel of Hart's at the Cupola, 6324 Peake Road. The family will greet friends following the memorial service. Donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice. Register online at www.hartsmort.com. Hart's Mortuary at the Cupola has charge of arrangements.