Bernice T McNeal

June 16, 1939 - January 7, 2016

Memories Once again the Lord has called home another one of his daughters, Bernice McNeal. Bernice was born in Eufula, Alabama on June 16, 1939, to the late Lizzie Tate and the late Lucillus Tate. She is also the maternal granddaughter of Viola Hill and Willis Forte and the paternal granddaughter of Robert Tate Jr. and Annie Wells Tate. Bernice was the fourth of five children: Lucillus Tate, Jr. (dec.), Annie Will, Eula M., & Beatrice Tate (dec.). Her family moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, when she was two years of age; first living in Lincoln Court and then moving to Evanston. She attended Withrow High School where she ran track. She married her high school sweetheart, the late Thomas V. McNeal. Their love was so strong that everyone could see the beautiful marriage they had. Their 50-plus year union blessed them with three children: Gary, Deborah, & Angela. Bernice was a devoted wife and mother. She was very spiritual and baptized at an early age. She and her husband both joined and attended Trinity Missionary Baptist Church. Bernice served on the Usher Board and helped with the Youth Choir. Bernice worked for the Internal Revenue Service and for Procter & Gamble but her main job was that of homemaker. As homemaker, Bernice stood by her husband and helped to provide for and take care of their families and others in times of need; their door was always open. Bernice enjoyed bowling, crocheting, and working puzzles during her adult life. She was a member of several clubs to include: Treasurer of The Ultimate Ladies, (a social traveling club), The Golden Girls, and following her husband she became the President of the Classic Investment Club of Cincinnati, Ohio, She was also a member of The Helping Hands of Lee Chapel AME, The Missionaries @ Trinity, The Young Adults @ Trinity, and The Alabama Connection Bernice, like her mother, had a quiet disposition and was a beautiful spirit internally and externally. She inspired all that she met with her kind heart and spiritual presence. Bernice enjoyed sharing her wisdom with others, providing advice, and supporting her family and friends. Bernice, although taken too soon, was blessed to have the opportunity to see her great-grandchildren born into the family resulting in four generations living at the same time. Bernice fought a good fight: Speaking for her she would have shared something like this: Speaking for Mom Tonight there may be tears but tomorrow will bring joyful memories. So, don’t mourn for me as I’m ready to leave. I have struggled with this life for the last eight years. There were rough times when I thought I was not going to make it through, But God saw fit to let me live until my body just could not hold on any longer. The pain was constant and unbearable. Now peace has come because the pain is no more I prayed before I passed that I would have the opportunity to see and spend some time with my children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters, family, and friends. I prayed that those I loved would be okay once I’m gone and that they will continue to live and love one another. Know that the time I had was long enough and now my suffering is done. I thank God for the life I lived and am now ready to pass on. For my circle of life is now complete and my purpose fulfilled. So, until we meet again on the other side in the sweet bye and bye. Always remember me in good times and with a smile. Love you all. Deborah Bernice leaves to carry on her legacy of love and family. Her children: Gary T. McNeal (Edie), Deborah A. McNeal, & Angela R. McNeal; her grandchildren Atiya A. McNeal, Zakiya R. McNeal, Erica E. McNeal, Gianna E. McNeal, Nicole L. McNeal, and her great –grandchildren, Amiya T. McNeal –Warren & Ayana E. McNeal-Warren, and Goddaughter Karen Pullin & Godson Ryan Canida (dec). Her sisters: Annie W. Garnett (Jim) & Eula M. Tate. Her brother-in- laws John D. McNeal (Erma) and Kenneth McNeal (Jennifer), Sister-in-laws: Mable Walton (Melvin), Betty Jean Brown, and Johnnie Mae Erkins. Her best friends: Jeannie Blathers (James), Earnestine Clifford, and a good family friend, James Parks. She will also be missed by a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, & friends.