Obituary of Thomas Wayne O’Neal

Thomas Wayne O’Neal, Sr., 70, of Summerville, South Carolina passed away August 19, 2017 at Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center Charleston, South Carolina. He was born on December 2,1946 in Greenville, North Carolina to the late Johnny and Annie (Jones) O’Neal. Thomas was a true representative of the phrase “once a Marine, always a Marine.” He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Marines in 1969 as a sergeant having served in Vietnam. At the end of his term, he served as a member of the Weapons Training Battalion, in Camp Lejeune. Thomas was a charitable man, and he would do anything for anyone. He believed strongly in helping those in need. Thomas was a family man, and although he came from a large family he always stayed involved in the lives of his siblings, nieces, and nephews. Thomas was an amazing father. He went above and beyond for his children. He was a provider, teacher, listening ear, and friend. He played every role as a parent, and he did it effortlessly. Thomas is survived by his sister, Gloria Jean (Ludwig); children: Crystal Marie Moore (Mike); Thomas Wayne, Jr. (Karen); Johnnie O’Neal (Seth); Regina Jeanette O’Neal (Thurgood); six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; Louise Simpkins (ex-wife), and beloved dog Dolly. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Buddy, Louis Ann (Ball), Betty Faye (Winslow), Kirby, Bobby Ray, and Marie (Simpkins); and grandchildren Anthony O’Neal and Thomas Wayne O’Neal, III. The family will receive friends at Simplicity Cremation and Burial Services on September 1st from noon – 1pm. Flowers can be sent to the service or monetary donations can be made to the Leukemia Foundation in honor of his two lost grandsons