WILLIAM MCNEIL, JR Obituary Pastor William McNeil Jr., a devoted servant of God, transitioned to his heavenly rest on October 21, 2024. Born on August 15, 1944, in Charleston, South Carolina, he was the firstborn son of Mary Kate McNeil and the late William McNeil Sr. From an early age, he displayed a commitment to faith and service, qualities that defined his life and ministry. The discipline of hard work came early in William McNeil Jr.'s life. He worked as an electrical apprentice and journeyman under the tutelage of his father, a Master Electrician. Those early lessons and skills opened doors to employment opportunities later in life as a student at Oakwood College. Furthermore, electrical work mentally and physically prepared him for the discipline and longevity required in ministry. While attending high school, he was an active member of the school bus driving club, responsible for transporting students to and from school. He also served as a Junior Church Elder and was elected President of the Alice Slater Youth Federation. After graduating from high school, he attended South Carolina State College, where he studied Industrial Arts Education. As an upperclassman, he was elected President of the engineering club and graduated in 1968. He began his career as a mechanical drafting instructor and made history as the first African- American teacher to integrate Gordon H. Garrett High School in Charleston, South Carolina. Shortly thereafter, he felt God