Obituary of Barbara O'Neal

Barbara Jean Anteau was born in Adrian, Michigan on April 4, 1962. She was the daughter of the late Wilbert Anteau and the late Laura (Morrell) Anteau. Barbara graduated from Britton High School. She was generous and had a big heart, serving as a caretaker for her mother for a period of time. Barbara moved from Adrian to Monroe, where she would meet the love of her life, Jeffrey O'Neal. The couple would marry on May 22, 1995. Barbara was a homemaker. She enjoyed the outdoors but over the years her health prevented her from getting out much. Barbara was blessed to have a very special relationship with her husband Jeff. The couple seemed to virtually be inseparable. Jeff often referred to them as peanut butter and jelly. Barbara loved to spend time with her family. She had a love for life and thoroughly enjoyed conversing with others. She also enjoyed babysitting and watching her nieces and nephews. Barbara liked collecting stuffed animals and costume jewelry. She had a love for all animals and in fact her cat: Boots held such a special place in her heart that she and Jeff referred to Boots as their son. Barbara Jean O'Neal, age 51 of Monroe, was called to her heavenly home on Friday, October 11, 2013 at 5:15am. She had been under the care of Magnumcare of Monroe and Mercy Memorial Hospice. In addition to her parents, Barbara's passing was preceded by a sister: Roseann Bonner; and a brother: Ralph Anteau. To cherish her memory, Barbara leaves her beloved husband: Jeffrey of Monroe; a sister: Carol (Harold "Buster") West of Monroe; a brother: James (Mary) Anteau of Monroe; a brother-in-law: Leroy Bonner of Monroe; a sister-in-law: Sandy Anteau of Monroe; and many nieces and nephews; and her "son" the cat: Boots. Friends may gather from 9:00am until 11:00am, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of her Life will follow at 11:00am with Chaplain Larry Lyons of Mercy Memorial Hospital officiating. Cremation will follow through Southern Michigan Services in Livonia, Michigan. In lieu of flowers memorial donations are suggested to the O'Neal Family to assist with funeral expenses. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.