William A. Neal

William A. “Billy” Neal, 82, of Lafayette, LA, died at 9:15 AM on Monday, May 1, 2017 in a Lafayette hospital.

Mr. Neal was born October 30, 1934 in Natchez, MS and lived in Lake Charles from 1950-1979 before moving to Lafayette, LA. He was the owner and operator of Neal Plymouth, Inc. where he sold the Lake Charles area Chryslers and Plymouths until 1976. Once moving to Lafayette, LA, he worked for Louisiana Resources, Williams Companies and Enron, where he retired in 1994. He was a member of the YMBC, J.C.’s and the Buccaneers, where he served as Jean Lafitte in 1974. Mr. Neal loved to travel the country and was a 47 year member of the Cruisin Cajuns FMCA, Past President of the Outlaws (Texas Outlaws), member of the Arkansas Travelers and the group “Friends”. He was also an animal lover, enjoyed pet sitting for his friends and loved to play cards.

Mr. Neal is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Linda Cole Neal of Lafayette, LA, son, Rick Neal and wife Carolyn of Sulphur, LA; daughter, Rhonda Smith and husband Brian of Maurice, LA; grandchildren, Candyce Brasseux and husband Barrett and Holly Fontenot and husband Jon; and great-grandchildren, Brynn, Audrey, Kara, and Leah.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Fred Neal.

His celebration of life will be held at Consolata Cemetery on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 1:00 PM. Pastor Jeremy Damiata will officiate. Cremation was entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of one’s choice.