Marion O Neal Bickley

COLUMBIA Marion O'Neal Bickley, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026; surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on February 11, 1940, in Chapin, S.C., to Vernon Bickley and Katherine Monts Bickley Koon.

He attended school in Chapin and completed his education through the tenth grade before leaving school to help support his family. Throughout his life, O'Neal took pride in hard work and providing for those he loved.

O'Neal's career reflected his willingness to learn and master new skills. He began working in construction and framing with Bagnal Builders before joining Palmetto Metal, where he learned welding. He later worked for Roberts Electric and pursued his electrician's license, persevering through multiple attempts before successfully passing the examination. He went on to work as an ironworker at the VC Summer nuclear plant. Eventually, he found a long and rewarding career with Lexington County Public Works, from where he retired after 23 years.

One of the greatest blessings of O'Neal's life began with a blind date. After dating for 1.5 years, he married the love of his life, Miriam Shealy, in 1960. They were married at St. Phillips Lutheran Church and later became faithful members of St. Thomas Lutheran Church. Together they built a loving home and raised two sons, Neal and Rex, whom O'Neal loved deeply and took great pride in supporting throughout their lives.

O'Neal was deeply involved in his community and fraternal organizations. He was a Freemason for almost 55 years and a member of Boyleston Lodge No. 123. He was also a member of the Jamil Shriners.

O'Neal found joy in life's simple pleasures and in the people who shared them with him. While he was known for his quiet strength and steady nature, those who knew him best saw his brightest smiles and heard his heartiest laughter when his grandchildren were around. Time spent with family, especially his grandchildren, brought him immense happiness and created memories that will be treasured forever. He also enjoyed gathering with friends at Hardee's, where conversation and fellowship were often as important as the coffee. A cold Diet Dr Pepper and a pack of crackers were among his favorite treats.

He also had a special affection for dogs. Over the years he welcomed many canine companions into his life. Most recently, he had a special bond with Buck, who would eagerly await his arrival and hop in his truck for a daily ride to the lake and a Slim Jim.

O'Neal is survived by his son, Rex (Anna); his daughter-in-law, Christina; brother, Donnie Bickley; his sisters, Edith "Sister" Leaphart, Becky McCartha, Ann Summer, Verna Sawyer, Mary Coltrane, and Debbie Slagle and his beloved grandchildren, Allie, Abigail and Isaac. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents; wife, Miriam; son, Neal, and brothers, David and Ronnie Bickley.

O'Neal will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, a strong work ethic, perseverance, loyalty to friends, and the quiet strength with which he faced life's challenges. His life was a testament to hard work, faith, and love, and his memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Services are pending.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel, is assisting the family.