Gene was born to Sample and Ima (Oldham) O’Neal August 25, 1932 in Fort Smith Arkansas. Hereceived and completed all of his education in the public school system there in Fort Smith. He then went to Baylor University, majoring in Journalism and Business, graduating in 1954. While taking classes, he worked for the Waco News-Tribune. After graduating with his BA, he remained, working on a Masters in Theology until he was called up to active duty in the United States Air Force (1955-58), Reserve (1958-60). He was a devoted patriot his entire life and demonstrated a deep commitment to his obligations as a citizen of the United States of America. In November 1960 he married his sweetheart and love of his life, Joyce Spradling in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. They were married for almost 60 magnificent years. During the last months of his life Joyce faithfully remained daily at his side providing loving encouragement and reminder that he never lived a lonely day. His lifelong career was with the Liberty Mutual Insurance company, where he became a member of their Sales Hall of Fame. He began this career in 1958, working in Oklahoma City, Midland, Houston and finally retiring after working in Dallas. He ended his dauntless working career in 2018 as an insurance agent for Family Financial Group in Mesquite, TX. This man never stopped trying to help people solve their big problems in life. He is survived by Joyce Spradling O’Neal, two of his three daughters and three sons-in-law; Randy Wilson and Dawn O’Neal Wilson (passed away to heaven on 9/6/19), Brian Shiu and Maire Shannon O’Neal Shiu, Darren Jones and Patricia “Dorri” O’Neal Jones. He has five granddaughters that overwhelmed him with pride; Emily Wilson Morris married to grandson-in- law John Morris, Delaney Shiu, Sophie Shiu, Reagan Shiu and Jessica Jones. And last but certainly not least, his first great-grandson, James Morris born, February 2, 2018. Gene would tell you; his most significant life accomplishment was what he was able to do for God’s Great Mission. He had the privilege of membership in eleven different Baptist churches throughout his military service and career. He served as an active member, Bible teacher, and deacon. He and Joyce spent years working with the Need Him Ministry in the evenings, counseling people one-on-one who were looking for spiritual answers. Seeing the power of the Gospel message realized in the lives of people he met, sharing his life with them and helping in countless ways were the single most important mission he ever accomplished.
The family requests that any donations be made to:
Richardson First Baptist Church, Richardson TX
Flowers to be sent to:
Ted Dickies West Funeral Home
7900 President George Bush Parkway
Richardson, Texas 75081
DONATIONS
Richardson First Baptist Church, Richardson, Texas
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