Dr. Lyman H. O’Neal

Dr. Lyman H. O'Neal passed peacefully at his home in Port Charlotte, FL on July 27, 2025 with his wife of 61 years, Cynthia Sue (Woods), by his side.

He was born on January 18, 1942 in Princeton, Indiana. He spent his childhood in Oakland City, IN and graduated from Oakland City High School in 1960 and Oakland City College (OCC) in 1963 with a bachelors degree. He taught science and coached Jr. High basketball at Francisco High School for three years before continuing his education. He then completed his Masters degree in 1968 and Ph.D (Entomology) in 1973, both from the University of Minnesota.

Dr. O'Neal was a dedicated career educator, having contributed to the learning of thousands of college students over 45 years, initially at Oakland City College (1973-1989) and ultimately at Florida Southwestern University (FSWU) (1989-2018). He spent the majority of his career as a full Professor teaching the Life Sciences. He received the Teacher of the Year Award while at OCC and the Professor of the Year Award while at FSWU.

From 1981-1989 he was the head coach of the OCC women's basketball program. He resurrected a troubled program and incredibly won the NAIA Indiana State title (district 21) in 1983-84. He was voted Sportsman of the Year at OCC in 1986. Just prior to his death, he was selected to the Oakland City University Athletic Hall of Fame.

In his free time, he was an avid reader, published cartoonist, nature lover, and sports enthusiast.

He is preceded in death by his parents Henry and Eleanor (Reibold) O'Neal, and brothers Aron D. and Daniel L. O'Neal.

He is survived by his two children, Dr. Michael O'Neal (Kathy) of Tampa and Cheri Connor (Barry) of Naples, as well as 8 treasured grand children, and 5 great grand children.

He was a man of faith and previously served as a Deacon at the First General Baptist Church in Oakland City where he loyally maintained membership since childhood. He bravely faced death without fear knowing that liberation from suffering and wholeness awaited him.

A small ceremony celebrating the life of this great man will be held at Sonshine Baptist Church in Port Charlotte, FL on August 16 at 11 A.M.. The Reverend Matt Malin will be officiating.