PORTALES, N.M. – Barbara S. O’Neal, 74, of Portales, N.M., was born June 6, 1938, in Saltville, Va., to Arthur Thomas and Sarah Elizabeth (Taylor) Cardwell. She passed from this earth Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2012, in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband and children at her side. She was the youngest of 10 children. Her family relocated to Rock Falls in the early 1950s.

It was in Illinois, at the age of 15, she met the love of her life, Eugene O’Neal. They married May 14, 1955, and began their lives together. They raised four children. Throughout the years, she worked in factories and nursing homes. In 1993, she and Eugene retired and relocated to Portales. She was an active member in church until her health failed. Her greatest joy was her family and her dog, Buster. She was known best for her love of God and all those around her.

She is survived by her husband of 57 1/2 years, Eugene of Portales; her daughter, Daris Hay and husband, Donald Sr. of Portales; her son, Robert O’Neal and wife, Angie of Portales; her daughter, Dorothy Allen and husband, David of Rock Falls; her son, Thomas O’Neal and wife, Sarah of Rock Falls; 16 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.