Edward Carlson O’Neal, Jr., 85, passed away on Aug. 13, 2025.
He was the husband of Stella Spencer O’Neal.
Born on June 13, 1940, in Morehead City, 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 U.S. 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 famous 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.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by 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 R.N. for her compassionate care and kindness during his time in hospice.
A memorial service to honor Edward’s life will be held at the Ocracoke United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 332, Ocracoke, NC 27960, where his son Albert proudly has been fire chief for more than 20 years.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
