[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 92 (Monday, June 18, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1061]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF WILLIE J. O'NEAL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 18, 2012

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
and service of Mr. Willie J. O'Neal who passed on June 12, 2012 at the 
age of 74. Mr. O'Neal, known to his family and friends as ``Deacon 
Bill,'' was an esteemed member of the Northwest Florida community, a 
proud veteran, and a dedicated servant of God. I am humbled to 
commemorate his life.
  Born in 1937, Deacon Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force, 
retiring at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Upon retirement from the 
Air Force, he continued to serve his country in the civil service. 
Earlier this month, Deacon Bill celebrated his 20th year as a deacon at 
Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Niceville, Florida. He spent his 
days as a fixture at the Eglin Air Force Base Exchange (BX) ministering 
to countless people from his favorite booth at the BX Starbucks. Deacon 
Bill was a mentor to some, a minister to many, and a friend to all.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am privileged 
to recognize the life and dedicated service of Willie J. ``Deacon 
Bill'' O'Neal. My wife Vicki and I offer our prayers for his children, 
Monica, Steven, and Mark, five grandchildren, Melony, Ethan, Clare, 
Grace and Matthew, and their entire family. He will truly be missed by 
all of us throughout the community.

                          ____________________