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Mr. Bryan McNeal Jr., President
CFSP Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer #1963Bryan McNeal, Jr, is a native of Awendaw, SC. After graduation from High School his first employment was at St. Francis Xavier Hospital as a Lab Aide, Vein puncture text, and assistant to the Pathologist during autopsies. From there he attended Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service in Atlanta, GA, where he received his licenses to become a Funeral Director and Embalmer.For the first twelve years of employment was at Harleston Boags Funeral Home, Inc. where he served as the Vice President. Mr. McNeal gives thanks and indebtedness to Mr. Grippon Boags for the knowledge and experience gained while employed at Harleston Boags Funeral Home.Mr. McNeal has received many awards for his service to his community and from his Business and Professional Associates.
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Mr. S. Gervais McNeal, Vice President/Manager
Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer #4035Licensed Preneed Insurance AgentSamuel Gervais O. McNeal, is a native of Awendaw, SC. He is the last child born to Mr. Bryan McNeal, Jr. & Ms. Benzina M. Holmes. Being the son of a Funeral Director and Embalmer, he started to gain interest in the art at an early age. By seven years old, he would join his father, anytime school was out, especially during the summer time and would help in any way within the funeral home.In 2013, Mr. McNeal graduated from Garrett Academy of Technology and soon after enrolled at Gupton – Jones College of Funeral Services, where he graduated Salutatorian with a Science Degree in Funeral Service, with the Class of 2015. Upon completing his apprenticeship in July 2017, he became a Licensed Funeral Director & Licensed Embalmer with one of the oldest funeral homes that is still operating in Charleston, SC: W.M. Smith – McNeal Funeral Home & Chapel. He is a member of Pi Sigma Eta Mortuary Fraternity and received the Mu Sigma Alpha Award for Academic Achievement.
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Mrs. Willette Alston-Hockaday, Apprentice Funeral Director/Embalmer
Licensed Apprentice Funeral Director/Embalmer #4591Colonel(R) Willette Alston-Hockaday is a native of Awendaw, South Carolina and the youngest daughter of the late Rev William and Minnie Alston. Willette received her undergraduated degree from Johnson C. Smith University and where she was also commission as an Adjutant General Second Lieutenant in the US Army in August, 1997.Upon graduating from the Adjutant General Officer Basic Course in 1998, COL(R) Alston- Hockaday was assigned to Heidelberg, Germany where she served as the Executive Officer for 510 th Personnel Service Battalion, Bravo Company Battalion, and later Chief Personnel Admin for Headquarters and Headquarters Company (DISCENT), Campbell Barracks, Heidelberg, Germany. After completing the Adjutant General Officer Advanced Course in 2002, she attended the Combined Arms and Services Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.After completing the Combined Arms and Service Staff School, COL (R)Alston-Hockaday was assigned to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), in Raleigh, North Carolina where she served as the Operation Officers from June 200 to July 2004. COL(R) Alston-Hockaday was then assigned to the 3 rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, GA as the Division G1 Officer Manager from July 2004 to August 2005. She then commanded Bravo Company, 3 rd Service Support Battalion, 3 rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart from August 2005 to July 2006. After company command, she was assigned to the Atlanta Recruiting Battalion, Smyrna, GA where she served as the Battalion S1 from July 2006 to June 2008. COL(R)Alston-Hockaday later served as the Battalion Executive Officer for Columbia Recruiting Battalion, Fort Jackson, SC from July 2008 to June 2010.COL(R) Alston-Hockaday served as the Brigade S1, 3 rd Brigade, 3 rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning GA from July 2011 to June 2013. She then was assigned to the Pentagon as The Special Assistance to Army of the Director Staff, Washington, DC from July 2013-June 2015. COL (R)Alston-Hockaday served as Professor of Military Science, at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Pine Bluff, Arkansas from July 2015 to May 2017. She then commanded 6 th Battalion and the Military Entrance Processing Station, Chicago from June 2017 to June 2019.COL(R)Alston-Hockaday academic degrees include Bachelor of Art Degree in Public Relations from the Johnson C. Smith University in (1997), a Master of Arts (MA) Degree in Human Resource Management from Webster University (2002) and Master of Strategic Studies from the Air War College (2020).COL(R)Alston-Hockaday’s military awards include the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Staff Identification Badge.COL(R)Alston-Hockaday is married to Virgil and the proud parents of six children.
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Ms. Patricia Ann Comfort-Capers, Office Administrator
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Mrs. Lisa S. King, Office Administrator
Mrs. Lisa S. King, joined the staff in January 2021, as a new journey, after retiring from a 38 year career in the field of Computer Technology. It has been a long dream to work in this industry with helping others as they make final arrangements for their loved ones. Lisa believes in giving back to the community by volunteering her time and service in the following organizations: Charleston County Parks & Recreation Commission, where she as been appointed to serve as a Commissioner for the past 18 years; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated where she is active on the local, regional and national levels; The Charleston (SC) Chapter of The Links Incorporated where she currently serves as the chapter President; and Ladies Enriching The Community, (LETC, INC.) a non-profit 501 (c) 3 entity - where she serves as the Financial Secretary for the board. Lisa is also actively involved where she worships with the Johns Island Church of Christ. Lisa received her Bachelor degree from the University of South Carolina and her Masters from Webster University. She is married to Mr. John W. King, and they are the proud parents of a blended family.
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Min. Jonathan L. Grant, Funeral Attendant
Jonathan L. Grant is a native of Georgetown, SC (Choppee Community). Prior to enlisting in the United States Marines Corp in July 2009 as a Communications Radio Operator, he was a graduate of Carver's Bay High School that same year. During his time of enlistment, he served two tours in Afghanistan during (OEF) Operation Enduring Freedom. In December 2017, after being in service for eight years to his country, he received an Honorable Discharge and decided to relocate back to Georgetown, SC. In his community, he is a beacon of light, and he is well known for the soul-stirring way that he ministers through song. Jonathan recognized at an early age that there was a different calling upon his life; and God was leading him to aid in Ministry in a greater capacity. On April 8, 2018, Jonathan became a licensed (ordained) minister, at House of Prayer COGICJ in Georgetown, SC (North Santee Community). Realizing there was still greater that God had in-store for him, Jonathan enrolled in Covenant Theological Seminary in Charleston, SC to pursue an associate degree in Theology. Jonathan became a part of the W.M. Smith - McNeal Funeral Home, Inc. on February 11, 2022. Jonathan has become known for several things since he began serving with W.M. Smith-McNeal Funeral Home, Inc. However, he is most known for exemplifying an exuberant spirit, his patience, and offering words of encouragement to uplift families during their time of grief. Favorite Scripture:Romans 12:21 "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."Favorite Song:I Can't Give Up - Lee Williams
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Ms. Fran Hollington, Funeral Director Apprentice #4442
Fran Hollington is a Charleston native. She graduated from Gordon H. Garrett Academy of Technology and completed the Funeral Service program of study at Piedmont Technical College. She is a member of Greater St. Luke A.M.E. Church, located in Charleston, SC. She has over twenty (20) years of banking experience. She enjoys reading, bowling, and spending time with her family.
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Ms. Pamela Gordon, Female Attendant
Pamela Gordon was born October 26th in Charleston, SC, and raised on John’s Island, SC. She is the 4th of 9 children.She attended Mt.Zion Elementary School, Haut Gap Middle School, and graduated from St. John’s High School - (“Home of the Mighty Islanders”) in 1974. She obtained an Associate Degree in 1976 from Trident Technical College in Secretarial Science.After several years of service with CCSD, she left in 1985. She later started with the local ILA Waterfront of Charleston, SC. Originally, she started work at Norton Lilly Shipping where she worked for 10 years and later transferred to OOCL (Oriental Overseas Container Lines) in 1992 where she retired in 2016 with 24 years of service.Her greatest blessings from God are her 3 children and 9 grandchildren. She’s extremely proud of the children’s accomplishments as productive active adults. She is an active lifelong member of Greater St. John AME Church on John’s Island, SC, and has served in various capacities, namely: Former Adult Choir president for over 20 years Former secretary to Senior Ushers Board Member Stewardess #1 Member of Steward Board Former President and member of the Lay Organization, current Vice President Annual Conference delegate and alternate at various times Delegate various times to the Edisto District Conference Chairperson of the Family and Friends Sponsored the church's 1st Food Drive Former Church School SecretaryAbout 2 years ago after her retirement, her family's longtime friend, Mr. Bryan McNeal offered her a position to experience the joy of family services as a lady attendant to experience the joy and satisfaction of serving the people in their time of need. She has enjoyed the experience of working with the "Masters of Funerals Services", Mr. Bryan McNeal, Jr., Mr. S. Gervais McNeal, and the professional staff of the Smith-McNeal Funeral Home. I've made lifelong friendships with this wonderful family that I will forever hold near and dear to my heart. I thank them for affording me the opportunity to serve others and to gain friends along the way. Favorite Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.Favorite Hymn: O Thou in Whose Presence My Soul Takes Delight Motto: If I can help someone as I travel along this way, then my living shall not be in vain!
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Mr. Bobby C. Coakley, Limo Driver / Male Attendant
Bobby, the son of Mr. Robert B. Coakley and Mrs. Rosalee Coakley was born, July 24, 1959. He is a 1977 graduate of Wando High School and a 1979 graduate of Denmark Technical College. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1980 and served his country honorably until 1986.In 1982 he married the former Cynthia M. Frazier. He has known her for 50 years and they have been married for 41 years. Their union has been blessed with four children and three grandchildren. He is a proud father.With a passion for repairing ships and submarines at an early age, he gained employment at Detyens Shipyard. He worked there for 27 years, retiring, February 2015. In his retirement, he loves serving others in their time of bereavement.He is a member of Long Point Missionary Baptist Church where he serves on the Executive Board of Deacons. Newly elected chairman of the Deacon Ministry in 2021. Its purpose is “Teaching the unadulterated gospel of Jesus Christ, so that men and women will discover their purpose and destiny, becoming equipped to live a balanced, productive, and prosperous life:One of his favorite scriptures is: Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct the path”.
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Mr. Tyron Fields, Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer Apprentice #4597
Tyron “Scoot” Fields is a native of North Charleston, SC, and the son of Ms. Sheri Pearson. He attendedNorth Charleston High School, and upon graduation entered the United States Air Force. After 20 yearsof honorable service, he retired in 2021. Under the mentorship of Mr. Bryan McNeal, Jr., Scoot’s interest in the funeral service business flourished, and he ultimately joined the Smith McNeal Funeral Home team in December 2022. Scoot’s academic degrees include an Associate in Applied Science in Aerospace Propulsion, an Associate in Applied Science in Social Services, Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, and he is currently enrolled at Piedmont Technical College where he is pursuing his Associate of Applied Science Degree in Funeral Service. He is very passionate about learning his craft and is excited about the opportunity to serve you and our community. Scoot is the fiancé of Ms. Chana Jamison and the proud father of two daughters - Genesis and Ja’Kai.
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Ms. Cynthia Swinton, Female Attendant / Driver
Cynthia Swinton, a native of Awendaw, S.C. is employed at South Carolina State Ports Authority. She attends Greater Zion A.M.E. Church. She is a graduate of Wando High School and South Carolina State University, where she received a B.S. Degree in Health and Physical Education.Cynthia enjoys singing, dancing and helping others in her community. In her spare time, she assist as a Female Attendant/Driver for W.M. Smith-McNeal Funeral Home.
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Mrs. Latoya Fulton, Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer Apprentice #4583
Originally from McClellanville, "the small town with a big heart". Latoya Fulton is a dedicated professional currently serving as an apprentice at Smith-McNeal Funeral Home. Latoya's journey in the funeral industry began with a transformative encounter during high school career day when Mr. Bryan McNeal, Jr. himself visited. His impactful first impression sparked Latoya's interest, leading to a deep passion for serving families in their time of need. Inspired by her mother's unwavering strength and resilience, Latoya carries her values of compassion and empathy into her work each day. Alongside a fulfilling career, Latoya finds joy in family life as a loving spouse and proud parent of five children. Graduating with an associate degree in Mortuary Science from Gupton-Jones School of Funeral Service in 2019, and a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, graduating magna cum laude in 2021, Latoya brings a blend of expertise and empathy to her role. Having dedicated a year to Smith-McNeal Funeral Home, Latoya looks forward to continued growth and service within the company. "Keep your dreams alive. Understanding to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, and hard work.
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Ms. Breelyn McNeal
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Mrs. India Brightman, Female Attendant
India Brightman, the youngest of four siblings, is a graduate of Del City High School, located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She then matriculated at Virginia College obtaining a Registered Medical Assistant degree. India is very active where she worships at Enoch Chapel United Methodist Church where she is the Praise Dance Coordinator. She is also a Lay Member to the Annual United Methodist Conference. India enjoys spending time with her family, as she is the devoted wife to Mr. Damon Brightman, mother to Nadia and Aidan and 2 bonus children through marriage. Nadia believes as Nehemiah 8:10 states: 'The joy of the Lord is my strength' and Philippians 4: 6-7 - 'Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God; and the peach of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
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Ms. Gloria Fulton, Female Attendant
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Ms. Delores Whaley
