Mr. Stephen "Steve" O'Neal's Obituary
The Funeral Service for Mr. Steve O'Neal, 76, of Dadeville, Alabama, will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 2:00 pm in the Chapel of Langley Funeral Home. Mr. Randy Anderson will officiate. Burial will follow in the Dadeville City Cemetery.
Stephen Francis O'Neal, known affectionately as Steve to his friends and family, passed away on December 17, 2024, surrounded by loved ones at home. Born on November 30, 1948, in Greenville, Alabama, he was the son of Mr. Sarden Francis O'Neal and Mrs. Claire Strain O'Neal. Steve attended college at Georgia State University where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Accounting. However, his true passion lay in connecting with people, which steered him toward a successful career in Sales. His personality created many friendships over the years with various clients and coworkers.
Steve was a HUGE Alabama fan and cheered on his team despite being in a family full of Auburn fans. (He still loved them nonetheless) He had an immense love for music and enjoyed playing his trumpet, singing, and listening to instrumental music, the oldies, and his favorite, The Sound of Music. Steve found peace in the outdoors and, being a "boat guy," he preferred the lake with his faithful dog, Loxie, by his side. Every now and then he could also be found on the range 'attempting' to play a round of golf. His fascination with history, especially Civil War history, was something he enjoyed and had dreamed of visiting all of the different battlefields.
Family was the cornerstone of Steve's world. On December 13th, he celebrated 50 years of faithful devotion to his best friend, life partner, and beautiful wife, Judy. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, memories, and unwavering support of one another. Steve's role as a family man and provider extended beyond his marriage; he was an amazing father and grandfather. To his family, Steve was a big teddy bear of a man that was hardworking, firm but fair, and above all else, selfless. His presence was comforting and his ability to listen made him easy to talk to. Steve was his children's biggest cheerleader, always encouraging them to "go big or go home" with a loving nudge and smile. His grand babies, who affectionately called him "granddaddy" and "e-daddy," were the light of his life.
Steve O'Neal navigated the world with a selfless and thoughtful demeanor, always putting the needs of others before his own. His legacy is one of love, kindness, and the gentle strength that comes from a life well-lived. While he will be greatly missed, his memory will be a constant melody that forever plays in the hearts of those that knew him.
Steve is survived by his wife, Judy Black O'Neal; children, Laura Anne (Luther) Richardson, David Carlton Jenkins, Kelly Lenora (Brian) O'Neal-Young, Katherine Leigh (Cody) Gilbert; grandchildren, Lenora Leigh Young, Hallie M. Richardson, Loxie-Claire L. Gilbert, Walker W. Gilbert, Jackson Gilbert; sister, Caroline O'Neal; and brother, Gordon O'Neal.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sarden & Claire O'Neal; and brother, Robert O'Neal.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.langleyfuneralhome.com.
Langley Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Stephen Francis O'Neal.
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