Craig O’Neal

Craig was born in Champaign, Illinois January 3, 1954. He grew up in Overland Park, Kansas, a suburb of Kansas City where he attended Shawnee Mission West High School. Craig enjoyed participating in Track and Field events and was an accomplished trumpet player. One of his fondest memories from those early years was leading his high school marching band onto the field at Arrowhead Stadium during half time of a Kansas City Chief’s game. In a move that would shape the rest of his life Craig enrolled in Bob Jones University in 1972. It was here that he would meet Karen Sandbach, his adored wife of 49 years. Always devoted to her, their marriage was full of joy and love that would endure and overcome any hardship.

Although Craig was well known in the Upstate as an accomplished Advertising Entrepreneur and founder of award-winning companies, Craig’s priorities of Faith and Family were truly what motivated him throughout his life. He loved to give his time away and was in high demand from many who sought his wise counsel. He was never too busy to chat or pray with a neighbor. Encouraging optimism and enthusiasm flowed naturally in his conversations.

Craig is survived by his wife Karen and 5 children, Jason (Kristi), Joseph (Alex), JD (Valerie), Joshua (Taylor), and Katie Bailey (Kyle), as well as by his sister Linda Kirsop (Dan). Some of Craig’s dearest moments were watching one of his 9 grandchildren playing on a sports team or cruising around with them on his family friendly pontoon boat. He always had time for his kids and grandkids!

Craig’s life was one of integrity, loyalty and unshakeable character. Fellowship Greenville has been the church family that Craig and Karen have been a part of for over 50 years. Craig has a deep love for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his church family. He served as a leader and mentor to hundreds of fellow believers during his lifetime and always had a desire to do more to advance the Gospel. His legacy and impact will be missed but remembered by all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Services for Craig will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Fellowship Greenville, 3161 SC-14, Greenville, SC 29615. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in honor of Craig to: The River Upstate https://theriverupstate.org/donate/, Miracle Hill https://miraclehill.org/give/, Links Players https://linksplayers.com/donate/