William Clanton O’Neal, Sr., 77, passed away of heart failure on November 24, 2015. He was born in Troy, Alabama to George R. And Murray O’Neal on February 24, 1938.

He is survived by his spouse of 55 years, Eleanor and their four children, William Canton, Jr, Orlando FL, Julianna Strickland (Jimmy) Winston-Salem, NC, Anita McBurney (John) Johns Creek, GA and Frank (Adelita) Lake Wales, FL. He was fondly known as “Poppa” to eight grandchildren: Josh Strickland, James Neal Strickland, Sarah McBurney, Nannette McBurney, John McBurney, Jr., Tiffany O’Neal, Samantha O’Neal and Madison O’Neal. Bill is also survived by two brothers, George D. and James O’Neal. He is predeceased by one sister, Ann Krieger.

Bill graduated from Troy High School in 1957 and attended Troy Stat College, Marion Military Institute, and Chipola Junior College. He was called to active duty with the Alabama Air National Guard during the Berlin Crisis and numerous times during the civil rights movement in the 1960’s. He was employed by Capitol Wholesale and Distributors in Montgomery, AL. In 1969 he joined the sales force of Daisy-Heddon and in 1972 moved to Winter Haven, FL. In 1973 he was named National Salesman of the Year for that company. In 1981 he became factory representative for Suzuki Outboard Motors and before retiring he was sales manager of Marine Supply in Winter Haven, FL. Friends remember Bill as an avid fisherman and a fan of NASCAR and Alabama Crimson Tide.

Bill was a member of First Baptist Church, Winter Haven and “mascot” of the senior ladies Faith Sunday School class. A memorial service was held at this church on Saturday, November 28, 2015.

Visitation will be held at Dillard Funeral Home in Troy on Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 12:30-1:30. Graveside services will follow at 2pm in Green Hills Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to The American Heart Association, Special Olympics or a charity of your choice.