Raymond L. O'Neil

Raymond Leo O’Neil, 80, a retired Supply Corps Navy Captain, died peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his family on May 14, at The Fairfax Retirement Community. He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Patricia (Pat) Hogan O'Neil. Survivors also include 5 children: Ellen Fuller (Wayne) of Virginia Beach; Jeff O'Neil (Barb) of Richmond; Mike O'Neil (Dale) of Alexandria; Mary Beth Lane (David) of McLean and Bill O'Neil (Joann), of Lilburn, GA.

He was the loving grandfather of 14 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson: Daniel (Molly and son, William) of Austin, TX; Benjamin of Indianapolis, IN; Matt, Samuel and Hannah of Alexandria; Laura and Adam of Richmond and Kevin, Austin, Mary Grace, Kathryn, Theresa and twins - Clare and Helen of Lilburn, GA. He is also survived by a host of other dear family members and wonderful friends.

Born in Cohoes, NY, Dad was the only son of the late Raymond Michael and Eva (Butler) O’Neil of Mechanicville, NY. Dad received a bachelor's degree in accounting from Siena College in Troy, NY, in 1951 and completed his master's degree in international studies from The George Washington University in 1967.

His 27-year Naval career took him and our family from Washington, DC to: Charleston, Guam, Philadelphia, Virginia Beach, Newport, RI and back to DC where he unselfishly was able to get multiple assignments which allowed Mom to teach school, to pay our way through college and assist with some special family needs. He was literally able to see the world during his naval career (while aboard the USS Enterprise, he participated in “Operation Sea Orbit” – the first nuclear circumnavigation of the world) and was able to take Mom back to some of his favorite spots. His military decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal and Joint Service Commendation Medal.

Upon retirement from the Navy, Dad joined the R.M. Parsons Co. as a Senior Contract Administrator and was subsequently a Senior Systems Analyst with EG&G. After a serious health scare from Mom, Dad retired earlier than planned so they could spend all their time together, his greatest joy. They enjoyed traveling, learning and volunteering together.

Dad, the eternal organizer, saved us a lot of struggle by preparing for this day 8 years ago when they sold their house and moved to The Fairfax Retirement Community, where they developed wonderful new friendships which added much joy and probably years to their lives. We are especially appreciative of their “Fairfax Family” – the wonderful friends and team members that made their final home so comfortable and caring.

Dad will always be remembered for his quick wit, great storytelling, his poker instruction to the grandkids and his love of recliners.

Godspeed, Dad/Grandpa!

Please join us for a reception following mass at The Fairfax Retirement Community - 9140 Belvoir Woods Parkway - Ft. Belvoir, VA 22060.

Interment at Arlington National Cemetery September 6 at 1:00pm with full military honors.