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Canon James Francis O'NEIL

1924 - 2020

Canon James Francis O'NEIL obituary, 1924-2020, Toronto, ON

BORN

1924

DIED

2020

FUNERAL HOME

Morley Bedford Funeral Services

159 Eglinton Avenue West

Toronto, Ontario

James O'NEIL Obituary

REV. CANON JAMES FRANCIS O'NEIL D.D., LTh., September 23, 1924 - September 10, 2020 Former Anglican Rector, St. Mary's Richmond Hill, St. John's York Mills and Chaplain St. John's Rehabilitation Hospital. On September 10, 2020, peacefully at Sunnybrook Hospital Toronto, after suffering a stroke. Husband of Jean, father of Peter (Carmel) and Mary (Stephen Gilbert). Grandfather of Erin, Rachel and Sienna. A Navy veteran whose ship was torpedoed in the North Atlantic in 1944. He was inspired by his naval chaplain to enter the ministry. His deep spiritual belief and love of people is well remembered. He would be the first to remind us, "We don't know the whole story..." and always gave the benefit of the doubt to others. He was a beloved parish priest. Loved always. There will be a private family graveside service.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Sep. 12 to Sep. 16, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for James O'NEIL

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19 Entries

Gail Brown

October 27, 2023

Confirmed me , married us, and baptized our first child. Baby Sat Peter. Gail Eden Brown ((Williams)

Katharine Mickeler

March 16, 2023

My sincere condolences to his family.

Rev O'Neil confirmed me at St. Mary's, married me at St. Mary's. Baptized both our children at St. John's York Mills. He was a true servant of God and a good friend to many.

wkeithscott

September 30, 2021

You have to be thankful for M. B. F. Srvcs., for a renewal of this fine obit., pictures, historical evidence ....such a fine man & family great evidence....so I notice that Jim was [12] year's older than I, I'd never gave that a thought, for with his 'True Broader Catholic Training & Faith, even family', to me He Was Timeless.
And Thanks for all here to stave your witness, it mean's a lot to me, esp. in a faster, changing world.....where far to many 'pews are empty', a contrast indeed, to what Rev. Jim desired, stood for, even laboured so dilegently.
Others here, Norma I recall you, & to the perth event, lovely plc., I from near there, partly resp. for a family cottage, 85 yrs., Chrlistie L, fam. still there, fab. plc., a 100 friends gone by, bestfriends have come & gone there too, sorry I do not go there, or I wld. have called.
Also; from SJYM's David Flint, a finest youth minister, loved him dearly, best personality ever, mrd. a son of a good NB, at their cottage back yard, you are the greatest.
In my youth, it was difficult with a father/uncles at WW2, 6-7 yrs., a lonely time, I picked good hero's, to like, & follow their example, David know's well: T.M.L. Capt. Syl App's....a hallmark man, help'd indirectly me a lot, of JOY.
NOT dissimilar - You all 'witness' here one form or another, love or appreciation, is what Christ stood for, & the basis I presume what Rev. Jim stood for.
So as I hope & edge towards 88, my short-term objective, Cancer free [3] x's, all those/these expressed; 'small circles of Life Indeed', mean so much to, & give my spirit a lift, during very serious Covid times.
My heroes, still like a child....never let me down, surely a gift given me, for even IHS.
Thank You Jim, Thank You David, Thank You esp...'Jean'.
k + keith scott

G Cornwall

September 29, 2021

Reverend Jim O’Neil was a kind man and I am so grateful that he came to see my mum at Sunnybrook to offer her solace and comfort during her terminal illness. Fond memories of a man who loved life and his parishioners and could always make us laugh on a Sunday and lift our hearts. RIP Jim O’Neil. You live in the hearts of so many.

wkeithscott

January 12, 2021

Rev. Jim, I knew & called Him. He was a good friend of Arch Bishop Lewis Garnsworthy, formerly of Toronto Diocese, a next door neighbour.
I; under His advisement, decades ago, urgently referred me to go see, Rev. Jim O'Neill, like immediately.
"I did", we became friend's, and w/o a doubt, was/remain's the finest person, I ever met, or positively influenced by to date, my 4 score year's.
In your Mercy Lord, hear my humble prayer, He did.
I am late here, but it so remains.
Jim, was & remains, alway's in my mind, & spirit.
I miss, HIM so.
k + [keithscott]

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Peter Singer

Planted Trees

Norma McFarlane

September 16, 2020

What wonderful memories I have when you were Rector of St. John's York Mills and the time after you retired when I lived in Toronto. Also, after I moved to Perth and visited you and Jean when I was in Toronto, once a year. Also, I called every Tuesday and we always had a lovely conversation and I read you a joke. I have a wonderful picture on my fridge of you, Jean, and I on your back porch. It is so precious and even more so now that you are gone!! Another precious memory was when I was a member of the Chancel Guild along with many lovely ladies including Jean and we used to decorate St. John's for Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Terri Lee

Planted Trees

Arthur Dawson

September 14, 2020

Our deepest sympathy for your loss. My parents Cliff and Betty Dawson enjoyed many years of friendship with Rev. Canon O'Neil and Jean and their young family while serving the Lord at St. George's Church in Haliburton back in the 60"S. I remember enjoyable social times my parents and the O'Neil's share both at church and at their homes. We wish you comfort in knowing he was loved and appreciated.
Sincerely, Arthur Dawson

Kathryn Santaguida

September 14, 2020

Dear Mrs. O'Neil and family--John and I were so sorry to read of the passing of Mr. O'Neil. I know he was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. You and he were great friends with my parents since Mr. O'Neil and my dad met at Wycliffe College. Your friendship spanned decades, and your support for me during the decline of my mom and dad was invaluable. I looked forward to the phone calls that you and he made--they lifted my spirits. I always mentioned the calls to dad when I saw him, and it brought a smile to his face. Susan and Peter were also grateful for the support you gave us.
Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.

The Santaguida & Woolley families

ruth hastie

September 14, 2020

So sorry to hear that Jim passed away. He was a great man and everyone loved him when he was at St John's. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with Jean and the family. God bless!

Ralph McKim

September 14, 2020

Jim was an early mentor. St.Jude's, Oakville. Senior Stick, Wycliffe 1950, Attended his ordination in Victoria. A kind and generous man. Thought of him often. Wish I'd stayed in touch. My condolences, Jean.

Below: Phil Calder, Jim, Ian Vorres with Pythagoras - self. Pipes were fashionable.

Gayle Brown-Hutchins

September 13, 2020

My dear Jean,
So sorry to hear of your loss.
Many memories are flashing through my mind. The best being that St. Mike's refused to admit the clergy after hours but your QUALIFICATIONS got Jim in. I can still hear him laughing about that 45 years later.
My thoughts & prayers are with you, Peter & Mary.
God Bless you all.
Gayle

Lynda and Peter Oliver

September 13, 2020

We remember Jim with so much appreciation for his loving kindness and wisdom. He was there for us at most of our family’s major life events and always offered personal and thoughtful guidance and service. We offer our prayers to Jean, Peter and Mary at this moment and wish them peace.

Lisa Nissel White

September 12, 2020

We were so fortunate to have Canon O'Neil at St. John's York Mills.
His leadership drew many parishioners to the church.
He was a huge comfort when our father (Peter Nissel) died at an early age, giving a wonderful eulogy acknowledging our father's contributions to the community.
Our mother (Maureen Nissel) was a church member for years and had many happy memories of times with Jim and Jean at the church's many events, the Rectory Strawberry tea socials, their chats as they walked past the house, etc. When Mum passed in 2013, once again, Canon O'Neil was there for our family and gave the most beautiful eulogy remembering both our parents. It was such a comfort at that most difficult time. He was a wonderful minister and friend. He had a comforting presence and a great sense of humour, always with a twinkle in his eye.
Our condolences to Mrs. O'Neil and the family.
Lisa Nissel White, David Nissel and David White

Gregory Benton

September 12, 2020

Like a good father but then a dear friend and mentor from the days of my youth to these my elder years; in season and out of season a steady and forgiving guide and inspiration through so many moments of my journey in the Christian life, the priesthood and in times of great need. He taught that a pastor is one who is 'available' and that was indeed the example of his own ministry and for which he was recognized. In the midst of everything there was always much good laughter and his was one that I shall happily continue to call to mind. James O'Neil stood beside me and before me and I shall cherish forever the gift he has been from God to me. To dear Jean, Peter, Mary and all the family, Debby and I offer our prayerful and heartfelt condolences. May James Francis O'Neil shine forever, with all the saints, in the eternal Light promised by Christ.

Jennifer Lee

September 12, 2020

I remember several very significant sermons delivered by Canon O'Neil from the pulpit at St.John's York Mills. It was always lovely to see him back at the church. He served well and will be greatly missed.

Michael Bakker

September 12, 2020

Jim was always compassionate and fair in an a large and at times challenging Parish of St. John's York Mills. He was very supportive of youth initiatives. My family and I have warm and happy memories of our time spent with him and the other leaders surrounding him.

David Flint

September 12, 2020

Dedicated mentor, faithful friend, living witness to CHRISTIAN values, and moderation and balance in personal convictions and religious
.beliefs.

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Funeral services provided by:

Morley Bedford Funeral Services

159 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto, ON M4R 1A8