James Wilbert McNeal Sr.

James Wilbert McNeal Sr., affectionately known as Daddy, Mac, and Uncle James, passed away on February 7, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on December 16, 1947, in Taylor, Texas, he was the son of Henry and Viola McNeal. From an early age, James carried a strong spirit, a love for sports, and a natural charm that drew people to him.

He attended O.L. Price High School in Taylor, TX, where he was an active athlete, excelling in football, baseball, basketball, and track. His love for competition and teamwork shaped his early years and built the foundation for the determined man he would become. In 1966, James answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Later, he also served in the United States Navy, dedicating years of his life to military service with courage and resilience. James was the father of Joy McNeal of Dallas, TX; James McNeal Jr. of Hutto, TX; Michael Robinson of Houston, TX; James Robinson of Houston, TX; Sidney Robinson of Beeville, TX; and Gayle Robinson of Houston, TX. He is now reunited in peace with his beloved daughter, Kristel McNeal-Gilmore, and son, Robert Neal Robinson.

 He was also preceded in death by his ex-wife, Joyce McNeal; his sister, Nancy McNeal; and his ex-girlfriend, Illa Robinson. James is survived by his brothers, Willie McNeal of Taylor, TX, and Sonny McNeal of Pflugerville, TX, as well as 17 grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends who will continue to carry his legacy forward.

 James was a man who lived on his own terms, carrying the lessons of his past while always finding his way forward. Those who knew him best remember his sharp wit, his laughter, and the way he could tell a story like no other. His journey wasn’t perfect, but it was his own—and through it all, his family remained a part of him.

Psalm 23 "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."