Edward Carlson O'Neal Jr.

Edward Carlson O'Neal, Jr., age 85, passed away on August 13, 2025. Born on June 13, 1940, in Morehead City, NC, he lived a life marked by dedication to his family, community, and country.

Edward was a proud graduate of Ocracoke High School. He went on to serve his nation with distinction as a Chief Petty Officer in the United States Coast Guard, retiring after a long and honorable career. Following his service, he embraced the life of a commercial fisherman, a testament to his love for the coastal community he called home. His replica of the Ocracoke style "pound net" can be found on display at the Working Waterman's Museum.

A man of faith, Edward was a member of the Ocracoke United Methodist Church. He was also a proud member of the Ocracoke infamous Mounted Boy Scout Troop 290.

Edward was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Edward Carlson O'Neal, Sr. and Edna Styron O'Neal, his sister, Betsy O'Neal Midgette and his beloved daughter-in-law, Teresa Coffey-O'Neal.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Stella Spencer O'Neal, and their four children, Edward Carlson O'Neal III (Pam), Andy Horne O'Neal (Cathy), Stephanie Jane O'Neal, and Albert Reid O'Neal. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Chad Sommers O'Neal (Erin) and Jaquelyn Nicole O'Neal (Juan); his great-grandchildren, Carter Sommers O'Neal, Kyler Diego Luna, Amaya Jane Luna and Johnny Cole Flores; nephew, Bradford Earl Midgette, Jr., who was more like a son, as well as several other nieces and nephews.

The O'Neal family would like to extend gratitude to Mary Jane Cougan, RN for her compassionate care and kindness during his time on hospice.

A memorial service to honor Edward's life will be held at the Ocracoke United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 332, Ocracoke, NC 27960, where his son Albert proudly has been Fire Chief for more than twenty years.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.