James Ray McNeil, age 76, passed away on Monday, February 22, 2021 in Longview, TX surrounded by his family. He was born on December 22, 1944 in Joaquin, TX to Henry Clay McNeil and Aline (Renfro) McNeil Shofner. James spent 59 years working as a painter and was well known and well respected for his work. He loved to fish and had spent the last few years deer hunting, something he enjoyed immensely. He also loved to grill out on his back porch, spending time with his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ceal and Aline Shofner and Henry McNeil; his daughter, Patricia McNeil; his son, Rusty McNeil and his brothers, Terry Shofner and Charles McNeil. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 32 years, Susan (Murff) McNeil; his children, John McNeil (Susan), Marcus McNeil (Angi), Damon McNeil, Stacy Farrell (Ottis), Shayna Griffis (Michael); his grandchildren, Dawn, Brandon, Callie, Chance, Kylene, Kyler, C.H., Shane, Shawn, Amber, Noah, Patricia; 20 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Bobby Shofner, Ricky Shofner; his sisters, Patsy Smith, Susie Dowden and many other family members and friends who were blessed by his love and friendship. James loved the Lord and was a long time member of the First Church of Jesus Christ of Vivian, LA. His life was well lived, he was well loved and will be deeply missed. Visitation for James will be held on Thursday, February 25, 2021 from Noon until 1:00pm at Meadowbrook Funeral Home, Marshall, TX. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 1:00pm at Meadowbrook Funeral Home with Bro. James Renfro and Rev. Michael Griffis officiating. Interment will be in Restland Cemetery, Waskom, TX following the service. The funeral service will be live streamed from Meadowbrook Funeral Home Facebook page.