Obituary of Ross Gilbert O'Neal

O'NEAL, Ross Gilbert, 84, of Gallatin, Tennessee left this earth on Friday, December 3, 2010. Ross was born May 6, 1926 and was the youngest of four children born to Ross and Dora Albright O�Neal. In March 1944 Ross married his childhood sweetheart, Chesta Ann Ford who was also the youngest in her family. At that time family and friends remarked that the marriage didn�t have a chance because these babies of the family didn�t know what life was all about, much less what it took to make a marriage successful. Ross and Ann were the loving parents to four children who honored their wonderful parents with a 65th Wedding Anniversary Party in March 2008. Our Dad always said that if each partner loves the other partner more than they love themselves then they will naturally ensure that their partner is loved, considered and has their needs met. He would say it wasn�t a 50-50 proposition, it wasn't even a 100-100 proposition. There is no numerical percentage for a happy marriage. The success comes when both partners look out for the needs of the other, everyone wins and everyone is happy. It worked for Ross and Ann. Anyone who knew them, knew the love and happiness that these eternal companions shared for nearly 68 years on this earth. Ross and Ann moved to Mt. Juliet in 1963 where they raised their children. Ross worked as a butcher for many years with Neuhoff Packing Company. He retired from Neuhoff when he was 55 years old, but continued to work in other positions and retired a couple of more times. Although Ross and Ann loved their beautiful farm in Mt. Juliet, they moved to Gallatin, TN. to concentrate on other interests. Ross and Ann recently relocated to Canton, Ga. to be closer to their daughter. Both Ross and Ann were faithful in their service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Ross served as Branch President several times as well as Bishop, High Councilor, Storehouse Manager, Stake Patriarch, Ward Mission Leader and various other callings. In 1993 Ross and Ann O�Neal were called to serve as missionaries for the Billings, Montana Mission. Within three months of their return home, they were called to service in the Atlanta Temple from 1994-2000. The Nashville Temple was dedicated in May 2000 and both Ross and Ann continued their temple service at this temple. Ross enjoyed his many years of volunteering with the Boy Scout Program. In 1962 he led a 70 mile hike across the Appalachian Trail. In 1963 he led a group of 19 boys and their leaders on a 104 mile hike across more this stretch of terrain. He was a natural leader and had fun with the boys as he taught them survival techniques. The hikes were long but the laughs were longer. Ross was known for his kind heart and generous nature. Throughout the years his children have learned of many stories from people who were blessed through Ross� kindness. Another example of his strong belief in the sanctity of marriage is the many times his children have heard stories of how a young couple were so impressed by the love and example of the O�Neal�s that they endured marital hard times to prevail with long and happy marriages of their own. Ross is survived by his loving wife, Chesta Ann. A son, Kerry Dale O�Neal, preceded in him death in 1982. He was preceded in death by his brothers, H.B., John Kymball, Leonard Grover, and sister, Flora Mai Smith. Ross is also survived by his three children who adored and respected their more than wonderful father. Danny Ford O�Neal (Joni) of Tualatin, OR, Deborah Lynn O�Neal of Woodstock, GA. and Kenneth Ross O�Neal (Cindy) of Valley Springs, Ca. Ross was the last surviving uncle to the numerous nieces and nephews who loved him as the sterling man he was. Services will be held at Monday, December 6, 2010 at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 1004 Woodridge Place, Mt. Juliet, TN. 37122 (615- 758-3568?). Interment will follow the services at the Mt. Juliet Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be Sunday, December 5th from 4 � 8pm at Sellars Funeral Home at Mt. Juliet and one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday. Arrangements by SELLARS FUNERAL HOME AT MT. JULIET, 2250 N. Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122, 615-758-5459, Obituary Line 615-758-8818, www.sellarsfuneralservices.com