Jack O'Neal

Jack William O'Neal, 13, left this world far too soon on Friday, August 22, 2025, as a result of injuries sustained in a boating accident.

Born on September 3, 2011, to Stuart and Allison O'Neal, Jack was a bright light in every life he touched. Wise beyond his years, he carried a servant's heart and a deep passion for giving. Whether ringing the bell for the Salvation Army at Christmas, raising money for his school, or simply noticing when someone needed help, Jack lived each day with purpose and compassion. His generous spirit and love for others were evident to all who knew him-and will be missed more than words can express.

Jack was a natural leader: outgoing, charismatic, kind, and grounded. He had a gift for lifting others up, whether by holding a door, offering a steady hand, or simply asking, "How can I help?" His kindness was effortless, his smile infectious, and his willingness to serve a true example for others to follow. In a world that often rushes by, Jack slowed down to notice and to care. He showed us what it means to love our neighbors and lead with grace. Jack also loved sports including basketball and golf, and recently started football--which he loved!

He is survived by his loving parents, Stuart and Allison O'Neal; his cherished sister, Riley Stuart O'Neal; his grandparents, Ed and Yvonne Modlin, Billy and Virginia O'Neal, and Terry Lynn Call (Lancaster, SC); his great-aunt, Pat Nystrom and her partner, Ken Dailey (Charlotte, NC); his aunt and uncle, Karen Call Hester and husband Brian (Mint Hill, NC); his aunt and uncle, Kelly O'Neal Crisp and husband Robbie; his uncle, Hilton O'Neal and partner Carmen Hodges (Morehead City, NC); his great-aunt Teresa Sabrinski and husband Mike (Monroe, NC) and his beloved cousins, Logan Crisp Ivey and husband Cameron (Wendell, NC), Grant McCoy Crisp and wife Haylee, Avery Hester, Austin Hester, Margot Sloane O'Neal, Adalyn Elizabeth Crisp, Matthew Brown and David Call. Jack was also surrounded by a large and loving extended family, each of whom adored him.

Jack was preceded in death by his grandparents, Michael Curtis Call and Cynthia Wiggins Gentry.

A Community Memorial Service will be held at Washington High School Auditorium on Wednesday, August 27th at 5:00 PM. All are welcome to join in celebrating Jack's life and the light he brought to others.

A Funeral Service will take place at First Presbyterian Church, Washington, NC, on Thursday, August 28th at 1:00 PM, with burial to follow at Oakdale Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Ben Davies, Hal Peters, Steven Lee, Michael Lee, Daniel Linton, and Josh Fisher.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made to the Ron Clark Academy through P.S. Jones Middle School to establish a Leadership Scholarship in Jack's honor. You can do so by clicking here. Jack was a true leader-supporting others in stepping up to lead ensures that his legacy continues to shine.

Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service is honored to assist the O'Neal family.

The memorial service at Washington High School Auditorium and the funeral service at First Presbyterian Church will both be live streamed. See live stream links below. The live stream will begin just prior to the service time, respectively. In the event, there are technical difficulties, the services will all be recorded and uploaded to the obituary following each service.

Memorial Service, Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at Washington High School Auditorium

Funeral Service, Thursday, August 28, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church

Graveside Service, Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Oakdale Cemetery