Ocracoke native Andy Horne O’Neal, 62, passed away on Sept. 1.
Born on April 4, 1963, in a Coast Guard helicopter 800 feet above Camden Point while in route from Ocracoke Island to Elizabeth City, he was a son of Stella Spencer and the late Edward Carlson O’Neal.
Andy spent his early childhood years moving around the country with his family, as his father was in the U. S. Coast Guard.
After his father’s retirement, Andy spent his teen years enjoying the beach and water, taking “scuds” and playing his music loud, simply enjoying the freedoms only Ocracoke could offer.
Andy went on to graduate from Ocracoke High School. He was a Dolphin and proud of his heritage. He spent his early adulthood on the water as a commercial fisherman, and not many people could navigate the waters of Ocracoke like he could.
He was an old salt at heart, and a generational pound netter. Ocracoke was in his soul. His life on the water was not just a profession but a testament to his enduring love for the island and its traditions.
Andy enjoyed the outdoors and loved to hunt and connect with wildlife. He was also a “cat guy” and was known for caring for his many cats.
Andy was preceded in death by his father, Edward Carlson O’Neal, Jr., his grandparents, Edward Carlson O’Neal, Sr. & Edna Mae Styron O’Neal and Andrew Sommers Spencer & Etta Carter Styron Spencer “Ogga”; and his sister-in-law, Teresa Coffey-O’Neal.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with those who survive him, including the love of his life, Cathy Beck; his mother; his siblings, Edward Carlson O’Neal III and his wife Pam; Stephanie Jane O’Neal and Albert Reid O’Neal.
He is also survived by his nephew Chad Sommers O’Neal (his early morning talk buddy) and his wife, Erin; his niece, Jacquelyn Nicole O’Neal and her fiancé Juan; his great nieces and nephews Carter Sommers O’Neal, Kyler Diego Luna, Amaya Jane Luna and Johnny Cole Flores, who he lovingly referred to as “the knuckleheads,” as well as his cousin Bradford Earl Midgette Jr., who was more like a brother.
There are many people to thank for being there to support Andy on his journey, but the family would like to mention his friend, buddy and constant supporter, Jamie Jackson, who was always there for him.
The family would also like to extend gratitude to Mary Jane Cougan, R.N., for her compassionate care and kindness during his short time on hospice care.
The family will hold a service at a later date to honor Andy’s life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 332, Ocracoke, NC 27960, or to Ocracats, PO Box 993, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Andy will be remembered for his dedication to his family, friends, and the island he called home. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at http://www.TwifordFH.com.