RONALD DWIGHT O'NEAL Sr.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Ron O'Neal was a charismatic person who knew how to relate to people across a wide spectrum of ages, races, and abilities.

Most of my memories of Mr. O'Neal are of stories told by his daughter, Amber, whom I met our first week of freshman year of college and our friendship has continued ever since. However, I do have a few memories of my own spending time with him when I visited his home in Elgin or when he came to Tallahassee to see his daughter graduate. I have always had so much respect and admiration for him and how he has raised his children and of the great sound advice he would always give no matter the decisions that they would choose to make. In all the stories that Amber has told me, I can always remember listening to her and thinking, "Wow, I wish I had a father like hers!".
All that knew him were truly blessed and their memories with him will surely be cherished. Mr. O'Neal you were a special, special man and it is showing in all that knew you.

What a legacy!! What a difference Ron made in our lives as well as so many others!!

I learned of this just today, and am shocked. Ron was my mentor and colleague when I was at Larkin High School. Carolyn was a colleague administrator at LHS. So many memories, fondly secure in the knowledge that this man and his family are permanent parts of all who know them.

What a loss but what a legacy! Mr. O'NEAL was way more than just the "head teacher" at Larsen. He was that "figure" that so many kids did not have at Larsen. As his size was intimidating his words we're sincere and uplifting. Be proud O'neals that he lives on in each and everyone who's life he has touched. Including those who spent the most time with him. Never Forget...Never Forget and GOD BLESS.

I was a student at Larsen when Mr O'Neal was principal. I can say that he was an individual who was very fair in his decisions and truly cared about the students at his school. I feel lucky to have met known him and would like to offer my sincere condolences to his family.
Scott Weber

My memories of my cousin-in-law is this. He was my 7th grade teacher at Lincoln School-1967-68 (first class he taught)and I had to meet academic standards of my family and I had to stop being a class clown. Then it was time to be disciplined with the strap & I told him this when I was grown, remember when you were going to spank me & classmate and I told him "I know you don't think you going hit me with that" and left out the room. Well, of course I got in trouble when I got home and I laughed the next day. He gave some candy he was eating and I knew everything was alright. I did my best in class and I can still hear him say, you gonna get an "A" on this spelling test and nothing less. Guess what I did! Rest in peace Ronnie and to my dear Cousin Carolyn and family-May God give you Strength, Peace and Courage to continue your journey through life. Much love-Judith Meeks-Hakim

Carolyn and Family: Ron was indeed a friend and a true and loving educator. Our children were the benefactors of his leadership which we will always respect. May God's hand be upon you and His blessings endure forever with you. In Christ!

As a former Larsen Middle student, I wish to convey my deepest sympathy to the O'Neal families. I remember once I was sent to his office and was VERY scared that I must have done something wrong. Back then, kids used to have respect (and I admit, a little fear) of school officials. I was brought into his office and was asked to sit down. By this point I was trembleing. He went on to ask if I knew why I was called to his office and almost started crying. He had concluded by informing me that I had made high honor roll and he wanted to congratulate me in person for my accomplishments. After that day, I saw him as a principal and a person. He was a very fair man at school and was never afraid to get involved with us as students. He has certainly touched our minds, our futures and our hearts. Thank you Mr. O'Neal for everything you have done and guiding us all to be better people. "Sharry, Class of 1990"

My sincere condolences to Carolyn and to Ron's family. Ron was the principal at EHS and I was "his" nurse. Ron was so helpful when we did the restructuring of the nurse's office. He really listened and thus EHS has an outstanding facility. May God bless you and your family and may Ron Rest in Peace after a beautiful life filled with service and love.
Marie Walters, School Nurse 1993-2005

MR O'NEAL WAS A GREAT MAN AND KEPT US IN LINE HE REMEMBER ALL OUR NAMES HE ATE FOOD OFF OUR LUNCH TRAYS LOL AND MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY THAT GOD WILL KEEP YOU ALL IN HIS PERFECT PEACE

My deepest sympathy to Ron's family. He was my principal, when I went to Larsen Middle and Elgin High School. We had great friendship and I will miss him dearly.

God bless Mr. O'Neal and his family. You are in my prayers. From a former Sheridan, Larsen and Elgin High student.

My condolences to the family. He was the principal when I was in Larsen Middle School. Rest in Peace.
Larsen Middle School former student 1988-1990.

To Ron's Family, I just read of Ron's death and want to extend my sincere sympathy. My daughter went through Sheridan, Larson and EHS while Ron was principle. Also Ron was one of my favorite customers coming to my shop. All of your fun, great family memories will help in this time of sadness, Les Jones

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

I had Mr O'Neal as a princepal at Larsen, my daughter during her highschool years. He has made quite an impact on me. I'll keep your family in my prayers. My condolences to his family at this time of loss in their lives.

We were very saddened to hear about Mr. O'Neal's passing. Our children were lucky enough to have him as their principal at Larsen and EHS. He was such a wonderful person and educator. Katie was even fortunate enough to have him as a mentor during her Masters program at Aurora. She saw him in the hallway there and ran up to him for a big hug. She always says she wants to be the same kind of educational administrator he was. I can't think of a better testament to his life. Thank you Mr. O'Neal for your very valuable influence on all 3 of our children. We'll miss you.

Carolyn and Family, Patsy and I were shocked to read of Ron's passing. I have many fond memories of working with Ron and You over my years in U46.

Ron was a hero to many, as are you, and there are ever so many people who owe so much to Ron for all the things he accomplished during his career. We have not only lost a true educator but also an even better friend! May the Lord be with you and your Family during this sad period of time.

I don't remember a time when I didn't know the O'Neal family. I went through school with Ron Jr., and my parents worked with both Mr. and Mrs. O'Neal in U-46. What an impact Mr. O'Neal has made on so many lives -- It is wonderful to hear the words of so many friends and former students. He will truly be missed. I was so sorry to hear of your loss. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

I was so sorry to hear about Mr.O'Neal passing away.He was a great princpal at Larsen Middle School.He made that school and every student look up and admire him and he made each child feel special.The last time i saw Mr.O'Neal was at Mr. Busto funeral.I was feeling so depressed and down for losing a old teacher and he give me a hug and said be strong every thing will be ok .Just remember the good times and the great memories.Today that memories stay with me and when i'm down i remember what Mr'O'Neal said to me and i smile It has help me get through some rough times since that day.My prayers our with you and your family. A student from Larsen Middle School La Donna Conley

to the neal family it was truely a blessing to share my middle school year with mr. oneal . my heart goes out to you all. v.phipps

I extend my deepest sympathy. Mr O'Neal had impacted so many peoples lives, was such a positive influence and a great role model for our youth.I had Mr O'Neal ay Sheridan and Larsen.Mr,Oneal was alays there for his students very dance ever basketball and volleyball game.He was always there if you needed him. The last time i seen Mr Oneal was 6yrs ago . I the office at East high School. I was going to get the transfer paper for my kids. The lady in the office told him Cynthia Barnhart is here to see you.It was a 2 hour vist.He never forgot his students, He remeber basketball games and even our 9th grade championship. Names off rach and every play on the girls team .I have to say. If there were more Mr,Oneals are schools would be so much Better. Mr oneal you well truly be missed. Thank you for everything. Rest in Peace!!!!

I was at Larsen as a student when Mr. O'Neal was principal. Later in life, I bumped into Mr. O'Neal because I ended up teaching in U-46. Mr. O'Neal kept bothering me about my masters degree (at Aurora of course), and I eventually gave in. Throughout my studies, I called Mr. O'Neal whenever I had a paper to write or I needed to interview someone. I told him it was "payback since he got my into this!" Ever since then, he has always called me "trouble." I feel fortunate that I was able to have conversations about education with Mr. O'Neal as an adult. What a prize to education he was and always will be.

To the O'neal family i am sorry to hear about the loss of a great man and role model.I was blessed for two yrs of my life in Larsen Middle School to get to know him.I was in his office alot and he tried to get me to stop being a frequent visitor.He had a part in where i am in my life now and i am greatfull for that.

I had the pleasure of serving on the board of Big Brothers / Big Sisters with Ron. He made such an impression with me as a person genuinely interested in the kids! Ron, Jr. was also involved in the activities committee - lots of fun! Carolyn, my mom, Elsie Lingle, also sends her condolences. She was the secretary at Hanover Countryside in Streamwood. Ron touched so many lives in such a positve way.

Deb (Eickstaedt) Figgins & Elsie Lingle

To the Oneal family. In this time of deepest sympathy our thought and prayers go out to you and your family. We will never forget Mr. Oneal for his kindness and generosity. Things are hard now, but remember to hold on to God's unchanging hand and he will make it alright.
Donnell Berry and family

Carolyn and Family,
I first met each of you at Century Oaks. The kids all went there. I so recall a time when Ron, Jr. came back to see me, when he was in high school, and told me that he could now see over the counter in the office!! I have always admired each of you. Carolyn, you will have difficult times ahead, without a doubt, but with your faith in our Lord, and the love of your family, you will trudge ahead, one day at a time. Please know that this is what Ron would expect of you. Remember the joy he has given each of you through the years. His trials in life are now behind him. Please find comfort in that. You each have my deepest sympathy and prayers at this time.

Well Ron has been like a father to me, we often would meet for lunch and talk about our families, jobs and education. This is one person who was my mentor and role model for education and life. I will never forget you and I will miss you so dearly. Family you are in my prayers Ron was a strong supporter for me and communicator. We all must go on and be positive and support each other for I know for sure that is what he would want I will be checking on you all just like he told me to do some time ago.
Love you all. The pain is gone away now, but his faith will live on forever love

To the O'Neal Family,

I extend my deepest sympathy. Mr O'Neal had impacted so many peoples lives, was such a positive influence and a great role model for our youth. He genuinely cared about his students. My heart goes out to you through this difficult time. God will give you the strength and peace to carry you through this. You are in my thoughts and prayers.His legacy lives on.

The O'neal family was well known when I was growing up. Mr O'neal was respected by alot of people.He was dedicated to his work with the troubled youths. He was a great influence and the ultimate role model for so many kids.He will be rememebered and missed dearly.
But we are thankful to have crossed paths with such a man.

To the family of the late Ron Oneal Sr, It was only yesterday that I could remember him saying life is what you make of it you have to work at what you want to become. So I say to the family of Mr Oneal, he was a very strong positve role model to the african american kids of this town lets let his legacey live on.

Traci and family you are in my prayers, I know just what you are going through I have been there. All I can say is God knows and he cares and he stands on his word.He will be with you always even until the end. Me and my oldest daughter Tralissa was blessed to have Mr Oneal as our principal at Larsen. To God Be the Glory for his legacy.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the O'Neal family.

Another Larsen Jr. High student from long ago, Julie Sexton Brown

Dear Carolyn and family,

Our family is so dismayed over your loss. The Glaser family have so many fond memories as friends, neighbors, and as colleagues. Ron will be remembered as a wonderful husband and dad, an exceptional educator, and to all that knew him, a good man. Joe and Linda

Dear Carolyn and family,

Benny and I received word last night of Ron's death. We were saddened to hear of the loss of a great man, and one of my 1959 classmates at Centralia Township High School. Benny and I have good memories of our school days in Illinois. Benny played sports with Ron, but mostly Lonnie, being they were from Class of 1957. We hold you and your children in our hearts and prayers. Our deepest sympathy is extended and we pray the Lord will wrap His loving arms around each of you and provide comfort, strength and peace in the loss of this giant of a man. The tributes coming in are very touching. The O'Neal Family is loved and respected very much.

God bless.

Mr.O'neal was my principal at Larsen ,he always was there for yuo with a big smile.Mr O"neal knew all the kids names and he never forgot them,he still remember my name and it had been 31 years ago that i was at larsen.I will always remember when i saw him at the gim he met my husband ,he said whith his deep voice "you better be good to this girl or we are going to have a long talk".He will be always in my heart and always missed him.To his wife and children ,God gave you a great humanbeing in your life,not everyone have that privilege in hteir life.God bless his family. Alba Farfan

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

We were very sorry to hear about Ron's passing. The two of you had such a great run together. Our sympathies to your entire family.

Pam and Terry Cox
Henderson, Nevada

I did have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Ron O'Neal and have fond memories of how he would go that extra yard to help his students. He possessed that special gift of being able to reach and teach students from every nationality and every walk of life. My deepest condolences go out to the entire O'Neal family

In my entire professional life, I never met or worked with more wonderful, caring or dedicated human beings than Ron and Carolyn O'Neal. What an honor it has been to have known them during this brief lifetime. Their quest for truth, beauty and goodness, in whatever form it took, has also had a significant impact on my entire family over the years. May God bless the O'Neal family.

Mr, O ,Neal was my principal at larsen ,He was a great man always saying hi to all the students he will be very sadly missed . My prayers go out to his family god bless

Carolyn and Family,
It is difficult to believe one man could be such a positive, driving force and have made such an impact on a community and so many children's lives. Ron O'Neal has left a lasting legacy in the Elgin community, which few others can ever hope to achieve.
As someone who was blessed to watch him work daily with the children at Elgin High School, he was truly an inspiration to his students and to the staff. He genuinely loved working with the children in his charge. Often, he would go into the cafeteria during lunch periods to talk or eat lunch with a number of students. You would always see him at every student activity. He always made time in his day to stop and listen to the children he served. It was easy to see he genuinely had his student's interests at heart, and they admired and respected him. The students at EHS knew Ron O'Neal's sole purpose for being there was for them. If it was good for his students, he did it!
Carolyn, behind every great man, is an equally great woman, supporting him every step of the way. I, along with so many others, are grateful to have had the opportunity to know and work with Ron O'Neal, and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.

Mrs O'Neal and Family

May God Bless you in this time of grief. Our Thoughts and prayer are forever with you.

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

My dearest condolences go out to the entire O'Neal family. As I can only imagine his impact upon thousands of lives in Elgin, he made a profound impact at East Aurora High School when he came to serve as interim principal. I feel privileged and lucky enough to have been able to work under him and learned a great deal. I know that we lost one of the greats!

May the good Lord provide his family the strength needed to cope through this difficult time.

To the family,
I was deeply saddened to hear about Mr.O'Neal's passing.My family has been close to the O'Neal's ever since we moved to Elgin in 1971. My sister and I both had Carolyn for math at Elgin High. What a wonderful person he was. He will be greatly missed.

He says not, "at the end of the way you find ME." He says, "I AM the way: I AM the road under your feet, the road that begins just as low as you happen to be."

So, be patient enough to live one day at a time, letting yesterday go and embracing tomorrow when it comes.

Instead of fearing death, look it in the face and recognize it for what it is-a friend that has come to release Ron from the bondage of flesh; indeed death can not extinguish his light.

Carolyn, few things in life have stopped me in my tracks and shaken my inner core - but the news I received a few minutes ago of Ron's passing has succeeded at doing both. Words cannot express nor can my heart reveal how sorry I am to hear of Ron's passing; but I can't help but smile and offer prayers of gratitude for his life.

God Bless you and your family and know that I am in continual prayer for your strength and supplication.

Oceana

What a terrific man, and loss. I was in 2nd grade at Sheridan when he started & he moved to Larsen when my class did. 8 wonderful years of having him my principal! A gracious & genuiune man and leader. My prayers are with his wonderful family.

Mr. O'Neal was my principal at larsen and he always knew everyones name and he'd put his hand on my shoulder and ask me how i was doing and he really wanted to know. He came to concerts and sport events and stand at the gym door like we were all his own kids. he was a positive role model in my life and never forgotten. God bless your family.

It was 1972 when I began my education at Sheridan school.
That is when I first met Mr. O'Neal. Then onto Larsen we went. Mr. O'Neal was someone that I will never forget. He was someone who cared about the kids. It saddens me to know that we have lost a great person who you cannot replace. He made a difference in my life. My condolences to the O'Neal family on your loss. God Bless.

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

I fondly remember Mr. O'Neal from my days at Larsen and again when my son started Elgin High. What a wonderful man! Always with a smile and positive word! A wonderful educator and role model! He will be greatly missed! God Bless him and his family.

Carolyn & Family,

We were so so to hear about Ron. Dino always looked up to him so much. Ron was his Principal and Dino said that he was much respected by students, faculty and parents. May you find peace and strength in the Lord at this difficult time. Please know that you will be in our thoughts & prayers. Sincerely, Cynthia & Dino Pace

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Mr. O'Neal Sr. However, I do have the pleasure of working with his son Ron O'Neal Jr. It is clear that the wonderful attributes of the father has been passed on to the son and his legacy lives on.

May God's loving mercy bring comfort to the family.

My deepest sympathy.

Living across the street from the O'Neal's as kids we would always see Mr. O'Neal jogging every morning as we waited for our school bus to Kimball, you could say we could set our watch to his running, he was like clock work. But the other thing is it was almost like he was sending us off to school, he would always run by us with a smile and wave.

My condolences to the O'Neal family. My brother, sister and I all had the privilege of having Mr. O'Neal has our principal at some point in our years in U-46. He was a remarkable human being and will be greatly missed.

Ron O'Neal was a great man and a great leader for all his students. He will be deeply missed and my memories of him at Elgin High will live on along with everyone elses. My condolenses to his entire family.

Dear Carolyn and Family,
How sad we are to hear of your loss. We all go back so far in the history of U-46 and have so many memories. Of course you were at EHS when I came in 1972 and then later, I had the chance to work with Ron for so many years. Now that I live so far away, it makes me even sadder. Wish I were there to give you a hug!!! With fond memories. Jan Lochary

My condonences to the family.He was a principal over at larsen and a good role model. May you rest in peace.

Mr. O'Neal was a great person I had the honor of having him as my principle at Elgin High School. He was always willing to listen and give the advice that was needed. I will truly miss him. I have his family in my prays.

EHS Class of 2001

Jules, I am so sorry for your loss and know that you thought the world of your Father-in-law. Your love and admiration of him was present each time you spoke of him. You are in my prayers.

I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of such a great man. I had the honor of having him as my middle school principal. He always made me feel as if I could do anything I set my mind to. He will be missed.

My condolences to the O'Neal family. I went to school with Traci and Ricky and I remember hertalking of her father often. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Julie Allen-Carr

The community has lost a great man - I have many wonderful memories of Mr. O'Neal from when I attended Larsen Junior High in the early 80's- my thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

Ron,

Sorry to hear about your and your family's loss. I heard many nice and good things about your dad from the community.

My condolences go out to Mr.O'Neals family. He was such an amazing person he was always there for us when we needed him and his advised truely meant something. He will be dearly missed.

Mr. O'Neal was my middle school principal at Larsen and a positive role model to me as well as many, many other students in Elgin. It didn't matter how long ago you passed through his doors, he was always the same kind and caring person when you saw him years later. His wife and family are also a reflection of the selfless love that he had for all people. Heaven has another angel.

Carolyn, my father taught with you at Centralia High School (Cedric Gowler) and my mother (his surviving wife) who is visiting us here in Elgin asked me to write. (I was a classmate of Rick)
Betty and our family send our heartfelt condolences to you at this very painful time. Whenever we read of Ron's contributions to our Elgin community we were always proud of our fellow Centralia-native and the extraordinary educator and leader that he always was to so many others.
Gary and Lorna Gowler-Elgin
Betty Gowler-Centralia

I loved Mr. O'Neal from the very first day I met him. He was my principal, mentor, and friend. A very special person indeed. A one of a kind. His personality was larger than life. I have nothing but wonderful memories and anyone who has known him, no doubt has the same. Rest in peace, Mr. O'Neal. Much love.

I knew Ron through working with him at AU. We called ourselves Birthday Buddies and I always enjoyed our fun conversations. Ron always had a great smile and a wonderful sense of humor. He was a true gentleman and was well respected by many . My deepest sympathy. Lisa Moore

May God bless your family at this time. Mr. O'Neal was my principal at Larsen Middle School. What a great mentor. He made a difference in so many young lives.

Dear Family,

Mr O'Neal. He was my principal at Sheridan school and on my very first day, after I left early because I was homesick, he showed up at my house and dug me out from under my bed...this went on for days/weeks...until I finally stayed. I grew up with him there and then at Larsen. I was hoping he would have been picked when Felicetti left EHS but that didn't transpire...I spoke with him after his retirement and he said "Joey, the days of going home to get kids for not coming to school are over but I don't regret getting you". Mr. O'Neal will always have a special place in my heart! I will miss him. Joe Mukite

I was very saddened to hear of Mr. O'Neal's passing. The community has lost a wonderful man. My condolences to his family. May you find peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Former Elgin High School Student
Class of 1994

A true role model and mentor for so many young people. You have touched our lives in so many positive ways. We are grateful for your strong leadership and gentle spirit. The seeds you planted will continue to change lives.

To The Family,
Mr. O'Neal was a great person, and I know the family will miss him, he and my Late husband were great working buddies, so they are together now. He had all my kids thur Larsen Middle School they adored him as their Leader.
GOD will see you thru at this time of your life, just pray
Pearline (Herd)Riley&Family

Carolyn and Family: Petey and I are with you during this painful time. I didn't know Ron all that well, but remember you with many good feelings from your time at Larkin High School.
JIM & PETEY DEAN, Bradenton, FL

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.