Obituaries

A Life Well Lived

A life is not measured simply by the number of years a person lived, but by the people they loved, the lives they touched, the sacrifices they made, and the memories they leave behind.

Born in West Helena, Arkansas, he spent his early years there before moving to Topeka, Kansas, during high school. He attended Topeka High School, beginning a new chapter of his life in a city that would become an important part of his journey.

As a young man, he answered the call to serve his country, beginning what would become 10 years of honorable service in the United States Army. His military career included service during the Vietnam War, where he demonstrated courage, dedication, and sacrifice in service to his country.

Throughout his years in the Army, he received numerous medals and commendations recognizing his service, including the Vietnam Service Medal in 1967, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Purple Heart.

Of the many honors he received, the Purple Heart stands as a lasting testament to the personal sacrifice he made while serving his country. His decade of military service was more than a chapter in his life—it became part of the strength, resilience, and character of the man his family and friends knew and loved.

His faith was also an important part of his foundation. He was baptized at Silver Cloud Baptist Church in Helena, Arkansas.

Beyond his service to his country, he knew how to appreciate the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid, lifelong fisherman, and there were few things he enjoyed more than being near the water with a fishing pole in his hand. Fishing wasn’t simply something he did; it was something he truly loved.

He also enjoyed playing dominoes and spending time on the CB radio, especially talking with his best friend, Jimmi Bullocks. Those conversations, along with the stories, laughter, and unmistakable personality he shared with those around him, became part of the memories his family and friends will carry with them forever.

His Legacy

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mattie Henderson and Harry Walls Sr.; his father, James Henry O’Neal Sr.; his sister, Bobbie Jean O’Neal; his brother; Gary James O’Neal, and his grandson, Christopher O’Shea Stone.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved mother, Willa Mae Anderson.

He is also survived by his sisters, Delores Thomas, Shirley Edwards, Carriedale Woods, Mattie Anderson, Juanita (Loyal) Bullock, and LaTonya O’Neal; and his brothers, Mylus O’Neal, James A. McClinton, and Sylvester Mitchell.

His legacy lives on through his children: sons, Harry O’Neal, Patrick (Janae) O’Neal, Maurice (Latoyia) O’Neal, Mario O’Neal, and Alex Simpson; and daughters, Latoya M. (Jeffery) Johnson, Tekelia Stewart, Aisha Stewart, and Christie Evans.

He was blessed with a large and growing family, including 25 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, each a part of the legacy he leaves behind.

He also shared a special bond with a very special little guy, Chrishan Harrell, who held a special place in his heart.

He leaves behind countless extended family members, friends, fellow veterans, fishing buddies, and all those whose lives were touched simply by knowing him.